The 18 things to do in Santorini

The most famous island of the Cyclades attracts by its magnificent panoramas, crystal clear waters and caldeira! So, what are you waiting for to visit Santorini?

Emblematic island of the Cyclades, Santorin is a small volcanic archipelago nestled in the southeast of the Aegean Sea, a few kilometers from the Greece continental. A dream tourist destination, Santorini attracts by its enchanting setting, its spectacular multicolored beaches (white sand, red or black), its typical Greek houses and its turquoise waters. This archipelago promises wonder and enchantment to its tourists.

In addition to its magnificent landscapes, Santorini also has a unique sweetness of living in Greece. Between permanent sunshine and the idyllic frame, you will be seduced by the one that is called "kallisté".

To discover at best this authentic Greek painting, we have selected the essential things to do in Santorini!

1. Visit Fira, Oia and the villages of Santorini

Charming cycladic town, Fira is the most important city on the island. At the foot of the volcano, in a rocky setting, between the long beaches of red and black sand, is the charming town of Firma. Sprinkled with churches with blue domes, houses with pastel colors, paved alleys, it offers sublime views especially on the caldeira.

Impossible to visit Santorini without discovering Oia! Located on the cliff side, perched at the top of the caldeira, the village of Oia is the romantic spot to contemplate the beautiful sunsets.

Besides its sumptuous panoramas, it is also known for its typical Greek architecture! Indeed, with its maze of alleys, its Orthodox churches with a blue dome and its many steps, Oia offers tourists everything they expect from a small cycladic city.

Pyrgos, Finikia, Ammoudi... other villages in Santorini deserve to be explored. Discover our selection.

2. Play archaeologists on the ancient site of Akrotiri

Discovered in 1967 by the archaeologist Spyridon Marinatos Akrotiri is a village covered by the ashes of a volcanic eruption called "Minoan", 3500 years ago. Such a Pompei Greek, Akrotiri is a must-see in Santorini.

Currently, the ruins are sheltered by a bioclimatic roof that opens and closes, allowing air circulation. The place is therefore ideal to escape the heat of the summer days. A wooden walk winds through the site. You can follow the visit by booking a . It is interesting, if you are a group, to choose one of the ancient city.

3. The ancient city of Thera

The archaeology and history lovers will enjoy themselves by discovering the ancient city of Thera. Visiting Santorini sometimes looks like a trip in time. Like an open-air museum, the ruins of Théra radiate on the heights of the hill of Mesa Vouno.

Overlooking the Aegean, the sanctuary of Artemidoros welcomes visitors in search of knowledge. The site, rich in frescoes and columns, allows you to visit Santorini as you have never done before!

4. Making a boat trip around the island

An exit at sea during your stay in Santorini is ideal to enjoy the sun and make the tour of the island. Several cruises exist and usually offer an identical route: you navigate the Santorini caldeira. Stops are planned to swim in hot springs, see the active volcano and explore the typical villages of Thirassia and Oia.

Only experience changes: the most popular cruise is also the cheapest, but remains very crowded. Alternatives allow you to better enjoy the experience if you choose cruises in small groups, at sunset, or according to the services offered on board.

Note that it is also possible to rent a boat by your own means. If you don't know how to navigate, most boats in Santorini are rented with the presence of the skipper. You can then make your own circuit half-day or daytime. You can also let your guide offer you its itinerary, taking a few stops in small coves and on the most famous islands of Santorini such as Néa Kaméni and Paléa Kaméni.

5. Hiking between Fira and Oia

This is one of the best things to do in Santorini, and it’s free! The hike between Fira and Oia ( see the trace ) offer incredible views of the island. The hike lasts between 2 and 5 hours, depending on your rhythm and the number of photo breaks you take during the walk. The itinerary is not completely marked but it is quite intuitive: stay on the path that follows the edge of the caldeira and walk north from Fira. You can also hike in the opposite direction, but walking north to Oia and the tip of the island is prettiest. In the summer months, we recommend leaving early in the morning.

The archipelago of Santorini has a large network of hikes so you can’t lose yourself since most trails are maintained and marked. We recommend that you read our article on the most beautiful hikes to do in Santorini .

6. To visit the island of Thirassia

Authentic and quiet, the island of Thirassia is a must-see in Santorini! The second largest island in the archipelago, it is not invaded by tourists. Indeed, the inhabitants prefer agricultural activities and holidaymakers come to seek a gentle life in harmony with nature.

Also, do not miss the visit of the taverns, the few monasteries scattered on the island, the charming hamlets of Manolas and Potamos, as well as the two main ports of the island.

A classic activity in Santorini is to take a trip to Thirassia during a half-day cruise.

7. The crater of Nea Kameni and the caldeira de Santorini

You can't visit Santorin without admiring his caldeira! It is a huge volcanic crater submerged by the waters and surrounded by cliffs that delineate the bay of the archipelago of Santorini.

In fact, in the heart of this one is the island of Nea Kaméni, the point “buzzing” of Santorini. This is the place where the volcano is the most active! The atmosphere is warm, the rocks are black or red, the plants little present... In short, a chaotic landscape in all its splendor!

8. The hot waters of Palea Kameni

Nea Kameni’s sister, the one that is surnamed “the old burnt” is also a volcanic island full of resources. Unlike her little sister Néa Kameni known for her so-called grey volcano, that is, explosive and whose lava is viscous, Palea Kameni offers hot springs of thermal water.

Bathing in waters with shimmering colors at almost 30°C is a pure moment of relaxation! In addition, the red mud in the springs is excellent for the skin! Even more need to go to the spa! Visit Santorini fills all your desires for well-being and body care!

9. Visit them vineyards de Santorini

Ah... Greek gastronomy, a real delight, isn’t it? If you are a fine gourmet or a good living, you should not miss the vineyards of the archipelago. Visiting Santorini by passing this Greek know-how would be a shame!

Imagine elegant wineries in harmony with Greek nature and culture. They would possess sumptuous cellars, containing exceptional wines with delicate, intense and complex aromas of charming dresses with almost artistic colourful reflections. If you like this picture, Wanderlix strongly recommends:

• The Domaine de Venetsanos ;
• The Vignoble of Vassaltis ;
• The wine cellars of Gaia.

10. Santorini Wine Museum

Created by the Koutsoyianopoulos family, the wine museum is a must-see in Santorini. Open all year from 9 am to 7 pm, the Wine Museum transmits its knowledge and traditions through enriching, attractive and delicious visits! At the end, you can taste four wines from the nearby Koutsoyannopoulos winery.

Good to know: entrance costs only 7€ .

11. The beaches

Who says Santorin necessarily says beach and swim! This is undoubtedly the activity to be done in Santorini! Surrounded by crystal clear waters, the archipelago of Santorini contains magnificent black sand banks dominated by many rocky sparrows. Bronze and stuffing enthusiasts will be delighted to do the pill in the water.

In Santorini, each beach has its own identity, which is why the landscapes vary as much. Wanderlix heart blows are:

• Red Beach: probably the best known in Santorini, Red Beach attracts tourists by its shades of red and black;
• Kamari beach: if you are a fan of sonos and organized beaches, Kamari is made for you;
• The beach Vlychada : However, it is a pearl of the archipelago. If you want peace, it is here that you have to relax!

12. A ski jet hike in the south of the island

This is one of the most popular unusual activities in Santorini. On board your ski jet, you leave the black sandy beach of Perivolos and take the direction of the southwest of the island to the beaches of Vlyhada, Red beach, Kampia beach and White beach to reach the beach of Mesa Pigadia and the famous Santorini lighthouse. If the weather is conducive, a small snorkeling session is scheduled off the beach of Mesa Pigadia.

13. Dive around the caldeira and the volcanic islands

There are wonderful things diving spots all around the volcanoes and the Santorini caldeira. Professional diving schools organize sessions, adapted to all levels.

14. Other aquatic activities in Santorini

Surrounded by water, the archipelago of Santorini is full of aquatic activities that will delight both small and large. Very popular with holidaymakers, nautical activities are playful and conducive to wonder. Among the many aqualid animations to do in Santorini, which do you prefer?

• The : stable and foam, this board is ideal to discover a smooth nautical sport. The cruising rhythm you will adopt will allow you to admire the surrounding area. Amazed by the magical scenery around you, still pay attention to the fall;
• Kitesurf " windsurf: waves and wind will be your best allies during these activities that will provide you with adrenaline and strong sensations;
• The wakeboard & water skiing: if you are a cuckoo, these two skis are made for you! However, prepare yourself for the fall because holding in balance is not as simple as it seems;
• Flyboard & overboard: and if you were trying a planant activity over the water? Impressive, flyboard and overboard give you strong sensations!
• The , this activity offers the sensations of paragliding except that you are above water

15. Quad output 4×4

Visiting Santorini in a 4×4 or a quad is the time for a walk to become a real adventurer with a soul of bard. Discovering the island on motorized hikes is an unforgettable and original experience.

Indeed, you can admire the magnificent landscapes while living strong sensations (the 4×4 and the quad, it shakes). You will see the magnificent caldeira as well as the turquoise sea and the volcanic islands.

16. Overflight Santorin helicopter

If you want to visit Santorin in an original and surprising way, opt for a helicopter flight! What better than taking height to admire the immensity and beauty of the place? Fly over the archipelago and enjoy this breathtaking view of the volcanic islets dyed with red and black.

From above, you will also see the green vineyards that contrast with the colorful hamlets of white and blue.

Good to know: for 1:30 , the rate is 500€ minimum and may vary according to the group.

17. Take a course in Greek cuisine

Visiting Santorini is also discovering local cuisine and traditional dishes! Now you think of the famous moussaka , the delicious tzatziki and leaves of vines stuffed . Yet, Greek cuisine is not only summed up in these emblematic dishes. Among the best specialties of the country, we suggest the grilled octopus, the spanakopita (flag, festa and herbs) or galaktoboureko (traditional dessert based on semolina and lemon pastry cream).

And if you want to redo them at home, know that you can take a cooking class from half day at price 80€ . This culinary and gastronomic experience will appeal to both cookers and curious people who want to discover a new know-how.

18. Enjoy the Nightlife

With its many bars, restaurants and discotheques, nightlife is very lively in the Cyclades. Partying in Santorini is almost an institution! If you are fans of endless evenings, we recommend you go to Fira. Always awake and alive, she promises you to party until the end of the night!

How to get to Santorini?

To get to Santorini, you'll have to choose from the air or sea routes.

By plane

There are many direct flights or with stopovers from France (Paris, Nantes, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Montpellier) for the airport of Thira. If you choose to fly to the archipelago, help you with a comparison of flights like Ulysses to find the best offer. The platform will tell you the best solution, according to your criteria.

By ferry

Santorin is well connected thanks to the ferry. You can book a trip from continental Greece (Piraeus, Rafina), the Cyclades (Anafi, Ios, Katapola...), the Dodecanese (Kasos, Cos...) and the Crete (Sitia, Heraklion...) to the archipelago of Santorini (Theraa). Direct Ferries , the ferry crossing comparison allows you to easily book a journey. The site parallels the prices and times of the crossings available according to your information integrated in the search engine.

How to move to Santorini?

Once on site, you can take the bus or taxi to your hotel or vacation rental. To be free throughout your stay, the most convenient thing is to rent a car on site. To find the best car rental offers, we recommend the platform Rentalcars .

Where to stay in Santorini?

As a volcanic archipelago of the Cyclades, Santorin is popular with tourists despite the limited offer. Indeed, on the 5 islets that compose it, only that of Santorini is habitable. But no panic, on this island, the offers are plaethorical and varied. The most important thing is to choose the area of the island where to stay. For this you can read our article on best places to sleep in Santorini .

You will find on this Compare hotels the best offers. We also recommend that you book in advance because in the summer, prices fly away and the choice is limited.

Among luxury hotels, Wanderlix recommends On The Rocks . If you prefer a peaceful and typical Airbnb, we suggest Sunset Views From Sideras House in Oia Center and Canava Villas II in Santorini in Medieval Village . If your budget is tighter, you will easily find your happiness in the island’s campsites and hostels.

So, what are you waiting for to visit Santorini?