Things To Do
in Santorini
Santorini is a volcanic island in the southern Aegean Sea known for its dramatic caldera views, whitewashed buildings, and iconic blue-domed churches. Its landscape is shaped by a massive volcanic eruption, creating steep cliffs, black and red sand beaches, and fertile soil for vineyards. The island’s villages, such as Oia and Fira, offer breathtaking sunsets that draw visitors from around the world.
Santorini balances vibrant tourism with traditional Greek island culture, making it a unique Mediterranean destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at Santorini National Airport and soak in your first views of the caldera. Make your way to your cliffside hotel and settle in, letting the warm Aegean breeze refresh you. Start wandering Fira’s whitewashed alleys, peeking into boutique shops and capturing awe-inspiring vistas.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a terrace taverna overlooking the caldera, sampling fresh Greek salad and seafood. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Thera to glimpse ancient pottery and artifacts. Stroll along the caldera’s edge for panoramic shots and local conversation.
As the sun dips, choose a bar perched above the cliffs for a sundowner cocktail. Watch as the sky transforms into hues of pink and orange, reflecting off the volcanic rock. Dine on traditional moussaka under twinkling lights, embracing the island’s rhythm.
Rise early to catch the first light dancing on Oia’s famous blue-domed churches. Wander through narrow lanes as shops open and bakers lay out fresh spanakopita. Pause at an ocean-view café for strong Greek coffee and local gossip.
Tour the Maritime Museum and learn about Santorini’s seafaring heritage. Relax in a hidden courtyard, sampling loukoumades drizzled with honey. Meander toward Amoudi Bay for a brisk swim in crystal waters.
Claim a front-row seat on Oia Castle’s steps for the legendary sunset spectacle. Savor chilled white wine while fiery hues ignite the horizon. After darkness falls, indulge in fresh grilled octopus at a cliffside eatery with twinkling village lights below.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3 |
| 🚌Local bus ticket | $2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $100 |
| 🍷Glass of local wine | $7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning caldera views and sunsets
- Unique volcanic beaches and landscapes
- Rich archaeological sites and history
- World-renowned local wines
- Can be very crowded and expensive in summer
- Some villages have steep stairs and uneven paths
- Limited public transport at night
- Seasonal closures off-peak
- "Kalimera" - Good morning
- "Efharisto" - Thank you
- "Parakalo" - Please / You're welcome
- "Yamas" - Cheers
- "Signomi" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Santorini
Visit one of these nice places.
Cliffside vantage point offering the island’s most famous sunset panoramas.
Colorful fishing boats and waterfront tavernas with clear water ideal for reflections.
Dramatic red volcanic cliffs contrasting with deep blue water.
Abandoned fortress ruins perched atop a jagged rock formation above Imerovigli.
Food in Santorini
Santorini Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy split pea puree often served with onions, capers, and local olive oil – try it at a seaside taverna in Akrotiri.
Must-Try!
Santorini-style tomato fritters flavored with herbs and mint, available in many tavernas in Fira and Oia.
Soft, slightly tangy goat cheese drizzled with honey – find it on meze platters in traditional restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market stalls offer fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and local wines – great for picnic supplies.
Street vendors sell gyros, loukoumades (honey puffs), and savory pastries near the castle ruins.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches and monasteries.
A friendly "Kalimera" (Good morning) or "Kalispera" (Good evening) goes a long way.
Avoid loud conversations in villages; Greeks value politeness and calm tones.
Safety
Tipping in Santorini
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is usually included but rounding up or adding 5–10% for good service is appreciated.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants; carry cash for small shops or taxis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry, and crowded; ideal for beach activities and late sunsets; book accommodations early.
Milder temperatures and fewer crowds; still warm enough for swimming and outdoor dining.
Cooler, occasional rain, many hotels and restaurants close off-season; a quiet time to visit villages.
Blooming wildflowers and pleasant weather; good for hiking and wandering the island.
Santorini at Night
Hiking in Santorini
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic 6 km path along the caldera edge with photo-worthy viewpoints.
20 min hike from Perissa to Hellenistic ruins on Mesa Vouno mountain.
Short but steep hike to medieval fortress ruins above Imerovigli.
Trail up the island’s highest peak with panoramic island views.
Airports
How to reach Santorini by plane.
Main island airport with flights to Athens and European destinations; 10-minute drive to Fira.
Major hub for international connections; options include ferry from Athens port or short domestic flight.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Greek families with long ties to fishing, viticulture, and hospitality.
Expats and mainland Greeks staffing tourism, dining, and nightlife sectors.
Day-trippers who add peak-season congestion to popular spots.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Regattas and charter yachts cruise the caldera and Aegean waters.
Strong summer Meltemi winds make Perissa and Monolithos beaches popular.
Casual games at organized beaches like Perivolos during peak season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santorini.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many mezze dishes like dolmades, fava, and Greek salads are naturally vegetarian.
Seek out tomato fritters, grilled vegetables, hummus, and breads; inform servers about no dairy.
Rice, meats, seafood, salads, and many vegetable dishes are safe; ask about flour in sauces.