15 BEST Things to Do in Santorini, Greece

Looking for the best things to do in Santorini? I’ve got you covered!

Santorini is one of the most famous islands in Greece, and honestly, it really does live up to the hype. With its whitewashed villages and dramatic caldera views, it’s every bit as beautiful as you’d expect. But I’ll be honest, there’s a lot more to Santorini than just taking pretty photos.

I went to Santorini to try out the island’s best activities for myself, and I had such a blast exploring beyond the postcard views. So now, to help you plan your trip, I’ve put together this guide to the top things to do in Santorini that will make your time here unforgettable.

Santorini at a Glance

Before we get into the full list, here are a few quick Santorini tips to know before you go. This island is beautiful, but it’s also busy and spread out in a unique crescent moon shape, so getting around takes a little thought.

Base yourself in Fira: This is the island’s main bus hub, so getting around is much easier from here, and you’ll still get those classic caldera views. Taxis in Santorini are expensive, and I paid around €40 for a 10-minute ride, so the local KTEL buses are a much better option where possible. Tickets cost around €2.20, and you pay in cash on the bus.

Book your activities in advance: The top-rated Santorini tours can sell out really far ahead, especially if you’re visiting in summer. I visited in May and booked my activities in February, so about three months in advance. Viator usually offers free cancellation, so you don’t have much to lose by locking in the experiences you really want early.

Three days minimum! I wasn’t sure if 3 days in Santorini would be enough time, but it proved to be ideal! It was enough time to see the island’s most famous spots and get out on the water, and I still had plenty of time to soak up those caldera views over dinner and drinks. So if you’re wondering how to fit everything in, here’s how I spent 3 days in Santorini!

How I Would Spend 3 Days in Santorini

Day 1: Start with a private island highlights tour so you can see a lot of Santorini without worrying about taxis or buses and tick off highlights like Oia, Pyrgos, and Prophet Elias Monastery. Later on, take a scenic stroll along the world-famous Caldera Path, then enjoy dinner with a sunset view.

Day 2: Spend the morning eating your way around the island on a Santorini food tour. This was one of my favorite things I did in Santorini! Then later on, head out on a sunset wine tour, finishing up at a spectacular clifftop winery.

Day 3: Visit Akrotiri Archaeological Site in the morning, then walk over to Red Beach for a quick photo stop. After lunch near Akrotiri, finish your trip with a sunset catamaran cruise, complete with swimming, dinner, drinks, and the most amazing views from the water.

For even more detail, check out my full 3-day Santorini itinerary!

Things to do in Santorini, Greece

1. See Santorini’s best sights on a private, customizable tour

Santorini may be small, but it’s more spread out than you might expect. Taxis are also really expensive, so if you want to see a lot of the island without trying to piece it all together yourself, this private highlights tour is a great option.

I did this near the start of my trip, and I’m so glad that I did. It was the perfect way to get my bearings, see a huge amount of Santorini in one day, and learn more about the island from my wonderful guide, Will. I’d especially recommend doing this on your first day if you can, because it helps you understand where everything is and makes the rest of your trip feel much easier.

I recommend booking the 6-hour option, as this gives you enough time to see the main highlights without rushing. I wasn’t thrilled about the early start at first, but it was 100% worth it because we got to Oia before the worst of the crowds arrived.

Oia is Santorini’s most famous village, and it really is beautiful, but it gets incredibly busy from mid-morning onwards. Going early meant I could actually enjoy the views and get photos without having to queue for every spot.

Since this is a private tour, you can tailor the route to suit you, but I’d definitely make Oia your first stop. I’d also suggest including Pyrgos, Prophet Elias Monastery, a black sand beach, and a winery for a really well-rounded overview of the island.

With multiple start times and durations available, you can choose the option that works best for you. If you want a stress-free, personalized way to explore Santorini, this tour is the way to do it – there’s a reason it has thousands of 5-star reviews!

2. Enjoy Santorini’s stunning coastline on a catamaran cruise

If you ask me, this sunset catamaran cruise is one of the best things to do in Santorini. The island is beautiful from land, of course, but seeing those dramatic volcanic cliffs from the water is something else entirely.

I did this cruise on my last night in Santorini, and it was the perfect way to round off the trip. Hotel pickup was included, which made everything nice and easy, and once we got to the port, our guide Julia made everyone feel really welcome before we set off along the coastline.

The cruise included a swim stop at Red Beach, views of White Beach, and a stop at the volcanic hot springs. Full honesty, the hot springs were not exactly hot, but the water was a lovely color, and the whole experience was still really fun. Just one important tip: don’t wear light-colored swimwear if you’re planning to get in, because the volcanic water can stain it. Darker colors are definitely safer!

You don’t need to bring a towel, as these are provided on board, but I would bring a light layer because it can get chilly later on, especially once the sun starts to go down.

Dinner was served on board, with grilled chicken, spaghetti, fresh salad, and local wine, which was such a treat after swimming. Then came the main event: sunset from the boat. It was honestly one of the most beautiful sunsets I saw in Santorini, and everyone actually clapped afterward.

3. Try Santorini’s famous wines

Santorini is famous for its wine, so a sunset wine tour is such a fun way to spend an evening on the island. I did this small-group wine tour while I was there, and it ended up being one of my favorite experiences of the trip. There is a morning tour, but I definitely think that the sunset one is the way to go!

Santorini is especially known for Assyrtiko, a crisp, refreshing white wine that’s perfect in the island heat, and we got to drink plenty of this on the tour! We also tried Vinsanto, a sweet dessert wine that’s technically white but dark in color. It has a rich, sherry-like flavor, and I actually really liked it!

One of my favorite things about this tour was that all three wineries were completely different. The first one was right on the water, so we had gorgeous sea views, while the second was inside a former open-air cinema, which was such a cool setting. Then we ended the evening at a clifftop winery, watching the sunset over the island with a glass of wine in hand. Not a bad way to spend an evening!

We also got snacks at each winery, including Greek meatballs, bruschetta, cheese, and charcuterie. By the end, it had basically added up to dinner, so I didn’t need to eat afterward.

I also loved that it was a small-group tour. Everyone bonded over the food and wine, and most of us even went for another drink together afterward. If you’re a wine lover, this is definitely one to book!

4. Take in the views along the Caldera Path

One of the best ways to soak up Santorini’s famous caldera views is to hike between Fira and Oia. The full route is around 15 kilometers, or 9 miles, and takes roughly 3 hours one way. You can then take the bus back for around €2.20 per person, which is a lot cheaper than a taxi, as those can easily cost €40 or more.

The route follows the edge of the volcanic cliffs and passes through Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and Oia. Along the way, you’ll get those iconic Santorini views, as well as whitewashed churches, fancy villas, Skaros Rock, and endless photo stops. There are also plenty of places to stop for coffee or gelato during the first few kilometers, especially as you walk through Fira, Firostefani, and Imerovigli.

The walk is fairly easy overall, but there is some elevation and a few slippery cobblestone sections, so comfy shoes are a must. You don’t have to do the whole thing, either. I walked from Fira to Imerovigli and back, which was about 5 kilometers in total, and the views were amazing the entire way.

If you do want to tackle the full hike, I’d go early in the morning to beat the heat and avoid the crowds. I went out early one morning and saw the donkeys heading down toward the beach, which was so cute, and there was hardly anyone else around. It was 100% worth the early start! And if you’re staying in Oia, you can just reverse the route and hike from Oia to Fira instead.

5. Go sea kayaking

If you’re looking for a more active way to experience Santorini, this sea kayaking tour is such a fun option. The island’s coastline is dramatic and volcanic, so seeing it from the water gives you a completely different perspective from the viewpoints and villages.

This tour starts near Red Beach, which is one of the most striking places in Santorini thanks to its red cliffs and dark volcanic sand. From there, you’ll paddle along the coastline, passing sea caves and beaches that you can’t easily reach on foot. That’s what makes this kind of tour so special. It lets you see a quieter, wilder side of Santorini that most visitors miss.

I also like that this tour includes time for snorkeling, so it’s not just kayaking the whole way. You’ll get the chance to stop and swim in the clear water before continuing along the coast. There’s also a homemade picnic included, which sounds like the perfect reward after a morning on the water.

This would be a great choice if you want something a little more adventurous, but still very scenic and relaxed. You don’t need to be an expert kayaker either, as the guides help everyone feel comfortable before setting off.

Related Read: To help you have the best trip possible, we created this epic 3-day Santorini itinerary full of the best things to do and places to eat!

6. Learn how to cook authentic Greek cuisine

If you’re a foodie, this Greek cooking class is such a fun way to experience Santorini beyond the views and sunsets. I always think cooking classes are one of the best travel activities because you don’t just eat the local food, you actually learn how it’s made. And let’s be honest, Greek food is one of the best cuisines to bring home with you!

This hands-on cooking class is a great option if you want to learn how to make classic Greek dishes in a relaxed, friendly setting. You’ll cook alongside a professional chef, who will guide you through the process step by step, so you don’t need to be an expert in the kitchen to enjoy it.

The menu usually includes favorites like moussaka, tzatziki, Greek salad, and tomato fritters. I love that because these are exactly the kinds of dishes you’ll probably be eating throughout your trip, and it’s always more interesting when you understand what goes into them! You’ll also learn more about the fresh local ingredients that make Greek cooking so good, especially in Santorini, where tomatoes, herbs, and wine are such a big part of the island’s food culture.

After the cooking is done, you’ll sit down to enjoy everything you’ve made, with refreshing local wine too. So it’s part cooking lesson, part dinner, and part cultural experience, which sounds like a pretty perfect evening to me!

7. Visit Akrotiri Archaeological Site

If you’re interested in Santorini’s ancient history, Akrotiri Archaeological Site is definitely worth visiting. It’s one of the most important historical sites in the Aegean, and it gives you a totally different perspective on the island beyond the spectacular scenery – as if that wasn’t already enough!

The site is really easy to reach from Fira by bus. Just head to Fira bus station and catch the bus to Akrotiri, which takes around 20 minutes. I’d check the timetable in person the day before, as Santorini bus times can change, but overall I found the buses really straightforward to use.

One thing I really appreciated about Akrotiri is that the site is covered, so it’s a good activity even when the weather is hot. It’s also easy to walk around, and you don’t need hours and hours here unless you’re a serious history lover.

I recommend downloading the Hellenic Heritage app before you go, as it includes a free audio tour for Akrotiri. If you listen to the full thing, you’ll probably spend around 1.5 hours here, but I just listened to the sections that interested me most and spent about 45 minutes exploring.

Akrotiri is also close to Red Beach, so it’s easy to walk over afterward and see one of Santorini’s most striking volcanic beaches while you’re in the area.

8. Ride horses to Black Sandy Beach

If you want to do something a bit different in Santorini, I think that this horseback riding tour on a black sand beach is a fantastic option. Santorini’s beaches are very different from the soft golden beaches you might picture elsewhere in Greece, because the island was shaped by volcanic activity and a lot of the sand here is black!

This tour takes you along the southern coastline, including Eros Beach, which is famed for its crazy, jagged cliffs. I also love this beach because it’s a lot quieter than the rest of Santorini, so horse riding here feels like a secret adventure. And I don’t know about you, but I always think that makes the whole experience feel so much more special.

This is also a good option if you want something active, but not too intense. You don’t need to be an experienced rider, as the tour includes guidance and the horses are used to the route. Plus, the group sizes are usually small, so it should feel more personal and relaxed.

There are multiple departure times available, which makes it fairly easy to fit into your plans. A morning ride would be best for cooler weather, especially in summer, while a late afternoon ride gives you that gorgeous golden-hour glow. Either way, it’s a lovely way to see a quieter and wilder side of Santorini that most visitors miss.

9. Taste your way through Santorini

This food tour was my favorite thing I did in Santorini. I can’t say enough good things about it!

If you love Greek food, this is such a fun way to try lots of different Santorini specialties without having to research restaurants or plan it all yourself. The tour starts in Firostefani, which is about a 15-minute walk from Fira if you take the road route, or you can hop on the bus if you prefer.

I’d recommend booking a morning departure if you can, as the tour includes a lot of food and can easily count as both breakfast and lunch. It’s also very popular, so I’d book in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the summer.

As amazing as the food was, what really made this tour special was my guide, Lena. She had blue hair, the warmest personality, and so many funny stories about her childhood, her family, and her 28 years working as a guide in Santorini. I’ve done a lot of tours with a lot of great guides, but honestly, none as amazing as Lena. She was one of a kind, and she made me laugh so much.

We started at a traditional coffee house in Firostefani and gradually moved along the caldera back to Fira. Along the way, we tried creamy fava with local beer, did an olive oil tasting, and learned how to identify the good stuff back home. We also had a family-style lunch with wine, then finished with loukoumades, which are Greek doughnuts.

Honestly, if I could do anything in Santorini again, it would be this food tour. It was a blast, and I ate so much good food that I wouldn’t have tried otherwise.

10. Enjoy a sunset dinner on the caldera

Santorini is famous for its sunsets, and one of the nicest ways to enjoy one is over dinner on the caldera. This is a classic Santorini experience, so you’ve got to do it while you’re here! It can be super romantic, but I did it solo and still had a lovely evening. 

I stayed in Fira, so I went to Aris for dinner one evening and had such a lovely experience. It’s right on the caldera path, so you get gorgeous sunset views while you eat. I ordered the seared tuna with grilled vegetables, and it was delicious, but the real highlight was just being able to sit there with a glass of wine and watch the sky change over the water. The waiter even brought me an extra glass on the house! 

Niki Restaurant is another popular caldera-view option in Fira, and there are plenty of other lovely spots dotted along the cliffside too. But wherever you end up dining, just make sure to book ahead if you’re visiting in July or August. Sunset restaurants on the caldera are some of the first places to fill up in Santorini, so don’t leave it up to chance during peak season.

11. Go fishing on a private charter (with snorkeling and BBQ!)

If you want to get out on the water but fancy something a bit different from a standard catamaran cruise, this private fishing boat tour is a really fun option. I like the sound of this one because it’s customizable, so you don’t have to be a super serious fishing person to enjoy it. As well as the chance to fish, you’ll be able to swim and snorkel, and have time to just relax on board and enjoy the views.

The tour sets off from Ammoudi Bay, which is already one of the most scenic spots in Santorini, with Oia’s dramatic cliffs rising above the water. From there, you’ll head out along the coastline and around the caldera, with the chance to learn more about the island’s volcanic history as you go.

Of course, the fishing is a big part of the experience, but I think the real appeal is having a private boat for the day. It feels much more relaxed and personal than joining a big group tour, and it’s especially good if you’re traveling with family or friends.

There’s also time to swim and snorkel in the Aegean, and the tour includes a meal on board with traditional Greek dishes. If you do manage to catch something, even better!

12. Explore Santorini’s coast and the Aegean Sea on a private catamaran cruise

If you’re traveling with family or a group of friends, a private catamaran cruise would be such an amazing way to experience Santorini from the water. The island’s coastline is absolutely gorgeous, and seeing it from a boat gives you a totally different perspective.

This private cruise has room for up to 15 people, so it’s a great option if you’re celebrating something special or planning a family trip. It’s actually the private version of the catamaran cruise I did, and it’s perfect if you want a more personal experience than a shared boat tour. You can choose between daytime and sunset departures, but let’s be honest, the sunset option is pretty hard to beat in Santorini!

The cruise sets off from Vlychada Marina and takes you past some of the island’s most famous coastal spots, including Red Beach, White Beach, Indian Rock, and the Venetian Lighthouse. There’s time to swim and snorkel along the way, and all the gear is provided, so you don’t need to bring much with you.

You’ll also stop at the volcanic hot springs, which are such a classic Santorini experience. Just remember to wear darker swimwear if you plan to get in, as the mineral-rich water can stain lighter colors.

Back on board, the crew prepares a BBQ meal with local dishes, plus Santorini wine, beer, and soft drinks. It’s definitely a splurge, but if you want a relaxed, private, and very special day on the water, this would be an incredible way to do it!

13. Visit the Santorini volcano and hot springs on a sailboat

If you want to experience Santorini from the water without booking a luxury catamaran cruise, this volcano and hot springs boat tour is a great option. It’s a more affordable way to see the island’s dramatic coastline, learn a bit more about its volcanic history, and visit some of the places that make Santorini so unique.

The tour usually starts from the Old Port of Fira, where you’ll board a traditional-style boat and sail toward Nea Kameni, the volcanic island in the middle of the caldera. Once you arrive, you can hike up toward the crater for views over the caldera and a closer look at the landscape that helped shape Santorini into the island it is today.

After that, the boat continues to the Palea Kameni hot springs, where you can jump into the mineral-rich water for a swim. Just a heads up, the water may not feel as “hot” as you expect, but it’s still a fun and classic Santorini experience. I’d also recommend wearing darker swimwear, as the volcanic water can stain lighter colors.

This is a great choice if you’re interested in Santorini’s geology and want a scenic, low-fuss boat trip that combines sailing, hiking, and swimming in one easy outing.

14. Go shopping in Fira

I’ll be honest, souvenir shopping is not usually my kind of thing, but even I made an exception for Santorini! The shopping here is really good, and Fira is a fun place to browse thanks to its narrow, cobbled streets. I especially liked looking around in the evening once the cruise ship crowds had cleared out.  

You’ll find all the classic souvenir shops in Fira, of course, but there are also some really lovely jewelry stores, boutiques, and clothing shops. I saw so many pretty dresses and linen shirts, which are useful in Santorini because they help protect you from both the sun and the wind. There’s even a Sephora in Fira, which I was not expecting!

I also thought prices were more reasonable than I expected. Santorini has a reputation for being expensive, but I found bracelets for around €5 and sweatshirts for about €25, so you don’t necessarily have to spend a fortune. 

Even if you’re not planning to buy much, it’s still fun to wander around, browse the shops, and soak up the atmosphere. And if you need a little shopping break, stop at Emfasis Gelato along the way. I loved their bubble waffles, and they also do gelato and crepes if you just want something sweet while you stroll. You’re on vacation, after all!

15. Visit the Wine Museum

If you’re interested in Santorini’s wine scene, the Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum is another great place to add to your list. I didn’t get time to visit on my trip, but lots of people recommended it to me, so I definitely think it’s worth considering, especially if you want to learn more about why Santorini wine is so unique. 

The museum is family-owned and built inside a cave, which already makes it feel a bit different from other wine tasting experiences here. As you explore, you’ll learn about the history of winemaking in Santorini, including how the island’s volcanic soil and windy climate have shaped the way wine is produced here.

There are several wine tasting packages to choose from, and museum entry is included with the tastings, so you can make the experience as short or as in-depth as you like. It’s a good option if you want something cultural, but still fun and relaxed. 

Another bonus is that the Fira to Akrotiri bus stops here, so it’s fairly easy to reach without needing a taxi. I’d just recommend booking in advance, especially if you’re visiting in July or August, as Santorini’s top wine experiences can fill up quickly. You can check out the different packages and make reservations via the museum’s official website.

Where to Stay in Santorini, Greece

Now that you know all the best things to do in Santorini, it’s time to find a place to stay! Choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference in your trip, so to help you out, I’ve listed the top options for every budget range below!

Luxury – $$$

If you want a luxury stay in Fira, Orama Hotel & Spa is the perfect choice. It actually feels more like a resort than a hotel, and it’s perched right along the caldera, so you couldn’t ask for a better location! It’s nice and quiet, but you’re also very close to the buzz of town, with excellent facilities and amazing views.

Rooms here start at around €300 per night during peak season, including free cancellation and a top-rated breakfast. Book your stay here!

Mid-range – $$

Loizos Stylish Residences is a great mid-range option in Fira, just a short walk from the town center and stunning caldera views. The hotel also offers a range of modern rooms and apartments, some with kitchenettes, balconies, and even private hot tubs! Guests can also enjoy an outdoor pool, making it a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Santorini.

Prices usually start around €140 – €200 per night and you can book this stay on Booking.com.

Budget – $

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay in Fira, Anessis is a great choice. I stayed here and found it clean, comfortable, and really convenient, especially for this itinerary.

The location was one of the biggest perks for me. Anessis is right near the bus station and only about a 5-minute walk from the hustle and bustle of Fira, so it was super easy to get around! The property itself is simple but spotlessly clean and very comfortable, with a nice pool and comfy beds. It’s not on the caldera, but I still had an ocean view from my room.

Prices average around €100 per night and can be booked here on Booking.com!

For more options, see all of the hotels in Santorini here!

Related Read: To learn more about the best areas and hotels to stay in, look at our detailed Where to Stay in Santorini guide!

Thanks for reading!

I hope this guide on the best things to do in Santorini has been helpful! I can’t wait for our next trip here – this place is pure bliss. From the food to the sunsets and everything in between, Santorini is sure to capture a piece of your heart!

Before your trip, have a look at all our other blogs here. We have travel guides, itineraries, and tour recommendations for places all over the world! I picked out a few below for you while you’re in this part of Europe!

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