Top 10 Best Things to do in Santorini, in Greece

Unique, unreal, spectacular… the island of Santorini and its Caldera are jewels to be seen at least once in a lifetime. Located in the Aegean Sea, it is one of the most beautiful Greek islands and a perfect getaway if you are looking for a change of scenery. Here is our top 10 experiences to enjoy in Santorini.

𝑨𝒓𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒍𝒆 𝑺𝒖𝒎𝒎𝒂𝒓𝒚.
– Santorini is a one-of-a-kind island born from a volcanic eruption. Its vertiginous cliffs, white villages with blue domes (Oia leading the way), and sunsets over the Caldera make it one of the most spectacular destinations in Greece, to be seen at least once in a lifetime.
– 10 must-have experiences: arrive by boat for the wow effect, wander through Oia, swim in the hot springs of Palea Kameni, visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri (the “Greek Pompeii”), taste the island’s volcanic wines, and sample the local gastronomy.
– A few tips to make the most of your stay: choose May/June or September to avoid the crowds, stay in Imerovigli or Firostefani for the views without the hustle, and plan 4 to 7 days to explore the island at a relaxed pace.

Essential things to know before traveling to Santorini

Before diving into our selection, here is a practical summary to help you prepare your stay.

Can you eat gluten-free in Santorini?

Good news: yes, and easily! Greek cuisine is generally very suitable (vegetables, fish, grilled meats, legumes). Several restaurants on the island now offer clearly identified gluten-free options, especially in Oia and Fira. A few places to try: Krinaki (Finikia), Pelekanos (Oia), Selene (Pyrgos). Learn the key phrase “Χωρίς γλουτένη” (khorís gloutèni) = gluten-free. Supermarkets also sell gluten-free products (notably the Schär brand).

A few other practical tips

• Bring good shoes: winding paths, slippery cobblestones and many steps (smooth-soled sandals are not recommended!).
• In summer, walk early in the morning or late in the afternoon: temperatures rise quickly and there is little shade.
• Check cruise ship days: the island can host up to 18,000 cruise passengers in a single day during high season (!). Check the cruisetimetables.com website to anticipate busy days and enjoy Oia on quieter days.
• Sunset in Oia: secure your spot at least 1h30 before sunset, the best places fill up very quickly.
• Be careful when driving: Santorini’s roads are narrow and there are many scooters. Be cautious, especially at night.

What to do in Santorini: our 10 favorite experiences

Arriving on the island by boat and being blown away

To reach Santorini, you have two options: plane or boat. If you have the opportunity to choose the second option, go for it! There is nothing more magical than sailing along this magnificent island, inside the caldera. Before docking at the old port of Fira, you will see the many white houses taking shape, contrasting with the high rocky cliffs. Guaranteed emotions!

• For maximum WOW effect: position yourself on the right outdoor deck (starboard) when arriving in Santorini. This is the side where the Caldera reveals itself most spectacularly.
• Book your tickets 2 to 3 weeks in advance in high season on Ferryhopper or Ferryscanner.

Take the cable car to reach Fira

If you dock at the old port of Fira, which is the capital of Santorini, you will need to climb the cliff to reach the city center. To do so, you can either walk up the approximately 566 steps or take the cable car. We tried the second option and have no regrets! The view over the caldera is simply breathtaking! In terms of price, a one-way ticket costs around €10 per person (2026 rates).

• Opening hours: the cable car runs continuously from 6:45 am to 9 pm in high season. Expect a queue of 30 minutes to 1 hour when several cruise ships arrive.
• Avoid ABSOLUTELY the donkey ride: although still offered to tourists, this practice is heavily criticized for the animals’ living conditions. Many organizations advocate for its ban — and rightly so.

Walk along the Caldera, from Firostefani to Imerovigli

Firostefani is the suburb of Fira. Much quieter, it offers an equally beautiful view over the caldera. Imerovigli, on the other hand, is better known for its small luxury hotels lining the cliff. However, you will find no shops and very few restaurants. Here, calm reigns. If you follow the path leading to the former capital of the island, Skaros, you can discover the Chapel of Theoskepasti. Nestled into the rock at the end of the Skaros trail, it is one of the most romantic spots in Santorini.

• The full hike Fira → Oia: 10 km, 3 to 4 hours walking along the entire Caldera. It is THE iconic hike in Santorini. Must be done early in the morning in summer (departure 7–8 am maximum). Water, hat and sunscreen are essential.

Visit Oia, the town of blue domes

Oia, with its pastel-colored facades, marble-paved streets, and above all its blue domes. Who wouldn’t dream of it? Oia is THE PLACE not to be missed as it is the most beautiful town in Santorini. It is also the most photographed town on the island, and probably even in Greece. Here, you will enjoy wandering through its streets early in the morning or sipping a cocktail in front of one of the most beautiful sunsets in the evening. A magical experience! Most tourists stay on the main street. Get lost in the adjacent alleys: you will find charm, artisan shops and almost no one. From Oia, a path of 300 steps leads down to the charming little port of Ammoudi where you will find excellent fish tavernas and a small dock for excursion boats.

Swimming in the hot springs

Nea Kameni is a small uninhabited island formed by volcanic eruptions. It is located in the Aegean Sea, opposite Santorini. If you wish to land there, you will need to take a traditional boat from Fira or Oia. You can then climb the crater. The hot springs, thermal waters, are located in Palea Kameni. You will need to swim a few meters to reach them. If you enjoy unusual activities, this should appeal to you!

Everything you need to know about this unique experience:

• Prices: excursions start around €25–40 per person for a half-day (Nea Kameni + Palea Kameni). Full “Volcano + Sunset” cruises (with Thirassia and sunset) cost €45–70. Allow 4 to 6 hours depending on the chosen option.
• Climbing the crater of Nea Kameni: about 30 minutes round trip on very hot and abrasive volcanic ground. Closed shoes are mandatory (flip-flops are not recommended).
• Hot springs of Palea Kameni: the water is warm (30–35°C), rich in sulfur and iron. Be careful, it can permanently stain swimwear—wear an old or dark swimsuit!
• What you really experience: the hot springs are less spectacular than expected (more lukewarm than “hot”, ochre color), but the boat trip and crater hike are well worth it.
• Tip: choose an excursion that includes a stop in Thirassia, the neighboring island much more authentic and peaceful, often overlooked by tourists.

Visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri and discover Red Beach

The archaeological site of Akrotiri is located in the south of the island. It contains the remains of a city belonging to the Minoan civilization, which was buried during the last volcanic eruption that occurred in Santorini. A few meters away, Red Beach (Kokkini in Greek) is a red sand beach bordered by cliffs, named after the reddish cliffs surrounding it, and is one of the most impressive beaches on the island. Note that access has been partially closed since 2022 due to the risk of landslides. You can admire it from the viewpoint. Finally, to discover the long and beautiful black volcanic sand beaches, head east of Santorini.

Practical information for Akrotiri:

• Price: €12 per adult (reduced rate €6). Free for EU citizens under 25.
• Opening hours: 8 am–8 pm in summer, 8 am–3:30 pm in winter. Closed on Tuesdays off-season. Visit duration: 1 to 1.5 hours.
• Nicknamed the “Pompeii of the Aegean Sea”, Akrotiri is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in Greece. The Minoan city was buried around 1600 BC, preserved under ash in remarkable condition. A cultural must-see.
• Our tip: combine your visit to Akrotiri with the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira. This is where the magnificent original frescoes discovered on the site are displayed.

Visit Ancient Thera

Located at the top of Mount Mesa Vouno (369 m), between Kamari and Perissa, this is an ancient city where the Dorian civilization settled in the 9th century BC. It is accessible via a winding road followed by a 10-minute walk. Or on foot from Kamari, allow 1h30 of demanding but spectacular ascent. Its ruins and exceptional setting are well worth the visit. However, there is no signage. Bring documentation if you want to navigate among the ruins and understand what they correspond to.

• Price: €4 per adult. Allow 1 to 2 hours for the visit.
• What you will see: remains of an ancient city (agora, theater, temples, houses) dating from the 9th century BC. Less spectacular than Akrotiri but with an exceptional 360° panoramic view over the entire island.

Visit the village of Pyrgos

Pyrgos is the authentic and peaceful side of Santorini, far from the bustle of Oia. It is one of our favorites for a slow travel escape in Santorini. The village of Pyrgos is located at the foot of Mount Profitis Ilias, the highest point on the island. Its narrow streets, chapels, white houses built amphitheatrically, and its ruined kastro make it unique. On your way down from the village, you can pick some wild figs. A true delight!

• An activity to do in Pyrgos: visit the Santo Wines estate with a tasting overlooking the Caldera. An unforgettable experience (reservation recommended).
• Our favorite restaurant: Selene and its creative Greek cuisine, with gluten-free options, in an elegant setting.
• Why go there: Pyrgos receives about 10% of Oia’s tourist flow for equal, if not greater, charm. It is the best-kept secret of seasoned travelers.

Follow the wine route

You cannot visit Santorini without exploring its wine route and discovering Nichetri, Assyrtiko, and especially Vinsanto, which are among the best wines in Greece. Santorini is one of the oldest wine-growing regions in the world (over 3,500 years). The particularity? The vines grow in basket shapes (kouloura), close to the ground, to protect them from the wind and capture nighttime humidity. A unique vineyard landscape in the world, recognized as a remarkable agricultural system. You can visit superb cellars, sometimes several centuries old. A moment of relaxation guaranteed. You can also visit Santo Wines in Pyrgos, Koutsoyannopoulos in Kamari which houses a wine museum, or Art Space in Exo Gonia to taste the island’s wines.

Grape varieties to discover:

• Book in advance during high season, especially for sunset tastings.
• Expect €15–35 per tasting (3 to 6 wines + sometimes food pairings).
• Plan a driver or rent a scooter or quad for the day.
• Vinsanto makes a perfect gift to bring home (bottles starting from €20).

Discover Greek gastronomy

If you love food and discovering new dishes, you will not be disappointed during your stay in Santorini. Here, you can savor Mediterranean cuisine and discover local specialties such as souvlaki (grilled skewers of meat or fish with vegetables), moussaka (a mix of meat, eggplant, tomatoes and onions), or feta, a cheese made from goat’s milk and olive oil.

Culinary specialties to discover in Santorini:

Beyond classic Greek dishes, Santorini has its own culinary specialties shaped by its volcanic soil. Among them:

Our suggested 4-day itinerary to visit Santorini

Have you ever been to Santorini?
What did you enjoy most on the island?

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