42 Best Things to Do in Santorini, Greece In 2024

Written By: The Planet D

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.

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Top Things to Do in Santorini

Top things to do in Santorini

Often touted as the most romantic destination in the world, Santorini Island was made for couples. Whether you want to have a romantic trip, or just chill out in some of the most amazing accommodations overlooking the caldera, Santorini will fulfill any travel dreams you may have. We suggest skipping the Greek Island cruise and spending more than just one short day in Santorini. Instead, book a few days in a luxury cave hotel suite with a beautiful infinity pool overlooking the most incredible views you’ll ever witness.

If you follow our Santorini guide you too will fall in love with this magical island. So are you ready to explore the best things to do in Santorini and our favorite place in Greece?

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:

1. Get Lost in Oia

Best things to do in Santorini Oia

The most beautiful village in Santorini is Oia. The perfect whitewashed houses with blue doors is the epitome of what one thinks of when visiting Santorini. Don’t just visit Oia on a day tour, stay overnight for a few days to explore Oia and take in the gorgeous views of the caldera, and get lost in the maze of streets. Must-see places in Oia are 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 in Oia it is worth spending a day here to experience the side streets and hidden alleyways of cobblestone, go shopping and hop from cafe to cafe for some amazing food.

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

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

Best things to do in Santorini Sunset in Oia

Sunset over the caldera is at the top of everyone’s must-see list when you are in Santorini. There is just something about the perfect blend of the iconic blue dome churches, whitewashed buildings, and golden sunset that takes your breath away. Because it is so popular it is also incredibly crowded so don’t expect to have this place all to yourself. In our opinion, it is worth fighting the crowds for the views at least one of your nights on the island.

3. Oia Castle

best things to do in santorini oia Castle

If you want that classic shot then we suggest heading to the main spot near Oia Castle, an old Byzantine Castle that is located at its highest point. This has the famous view with the windmills in the foreground contrasted against the beautiful sunset making for beautiful pictures. Another popular spot with amazing views is the blue dome churches.

4. Blue Dome Churches

best things to do in santorini blue dome

The 3 blue domes in the foreground make for a beautiful scene, and if you walk around the immediate area there are other excellent vantage points like the 3 bells that will give you even more incredible views. Regardless of where you go, this is definitely something you have to do when you visit Santorini.

For more information on how to get there and other great photo spots in Santorini check out our post A Photography Guide to Santorini. If you want some guided help to find the perfect locations we recommend taking Santorini Photography Tour. You can customize your guided tour to choose the places you want to capture the best photographs of.

5. Take a Sunset Catamaran Cruise

Best Things to do in Santorini Sunset cruise

To truly appreciate the beauty of Santorini take a boat tour. You’ll marvel at the high cliffs as you sail along the coast. Plus, you can go snorkeling, visit some of the lesser-visited beaches, and have a swim in the volcanic hot springs bubbling up from the crater. Our tour included a seafood buffet, sunset views, and a great crew.

There are several boat tours around Santorini and Get Your Guide has several you can book in advance with easy cancelation. We suggest a sunset cruise for some of the best caldera views. We took this highly rated 3pm departure Catamaran Tour to be able to watch the sunset from our boat and check out the hot springs. There is a reason this is one of the top attractions in Santorini.

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

best things to do in santorini Palea Kameni

Located in the center of the caldera are two small volcanic islands that you can visit on a boat tour. Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni (New & Old Kameni). On Nea Kameni, you can walk to the top of the active volcano. You can do this tour by boat

This dinner cruise allows free time at Nea Kameni volcano will sail to the island of Nea Kameni and have a chance to hike up to the top of the volcano to peek into the crater. Then continue to Palia Kameni to soak in the hot springs created by the underwater volcano. It includes amazing food including Greek salad, tzatziki, pork and chicken rolls, rice, with local wine.

7. Hike from Fira to Oia

best things to do in Santorini hike Fira to Oia

One of the best free things to do in Santorini is to hike from Fira to Oia. You’ll have the chance to go through the villages Imerovigli and Firostefani taking in the gorgeous views of the caldera from all directions. Stop for coffee or wine along the way in the towns of Firostefani and Imerovigli.

The hike itself is about 9.5 km and will take you 4 to 5 hours depending on how much you stop. It is a mix of up and down but the majority of it is paved so it is not too difficult. When you are finished you can grab a bite to eat in Oia, hang out for the sunset, and then either take a taxi or bust back to your hotel.

A great place to stay in Oia is the Andronis Luxury Cave Hotel and Suites. It has the best postcard-perfect shot of the caldera from its infinity pool.

8. Visit Fira (Thira)

Best things to do in Santorini Fira

The Capital of Santorini, Fira is where all the cruise ships come in. The beautiful village is busy, but it is definitely worth visiting. Walking even partway along the path from Fira to Oia is worth doing. It takes you away from the crowds and shows different views of the caldera and local life. This gorgeous stroll takes you along the scenic cliff path going through whitewashed villages.

9. Gaze over the Three Bells of Fira

best things to do in Santorini bells of Fira

One of the most popular things to do in Santorini is to go see the 3 bells of Fira. Next to the Three Blue Domed Church in Oia, the Three Bells of Fira are the most photographed site in Santorini.

To find these bells, go to Fira and search for the restaurant Mama Thira. From there, walk up to the top of the cliff to a parking lot. When you look over the parking lot, you will see these bells. You can also drive to the parking lot and simply park there to overlook the Three Bells. But part of the charm of exploring Santorini is walking through the narrow passageways.

10. Take a Helicopter Tour

There is nothing better than seeing the island from above. You and your group of four can book a private helicopter flight over Santorini to see the caldera from above. You’ll also have a birds-eye view of the surrounding Greek islands and the Aegean Sea. Check prices and availability here.

11. Go Shopping in Fira

Best Things to do in Santorini Shopping in Fira

Fira is by far the busiest of towns in Santorini with cruise ships coming in here at the port and passengers taking the gondola or doing donkey rides up from the water. While there is lots of shopping in Oia as well, Fira is the place to find your Santorini souvenirs. If you are looking for nightlife in Santorini, Fira is where you will find plenty of nightclubs, bars, and restaurants.

12. Ride the Santorini Cable Car

best things to do in Santorini cable car in fira
Looking over the main city of Fira at sunset.

If you are visiting Santorini for just a few hours on a cruise, a fast way to get up to Fira Town is to take the cable car up from the old port so you can appreciate more of the island. It was designed to bring 1200 people per hour up from the Fira port and visitors who come for day trips usually use this method.

If you are staying on the island, hike down to the old port and then take the cable car back up. There are donkeys that you can book to ride back up, but we suggest letting them relax and live the good life instead. Besides, a portion of the ticket sales goes to the mule drivers to help them continue to thrive.

13. Take a Winery Tour with Wine Tasting

best things to do in Santorini wine tour

Santorini is home to some of the oldest vineyards in the world. Traces of wine-making were found in the ancient city of Akrotiri. The amount of wineries per land area makes it the densest wine region in the world! Combine your visit with a sunset wine tour where you’ll visit 3 different wineries followed by a tasting with a view at sunset!

A wine tour is one of the more popular things to do in Santorini and is an excellent way to explore more of the island while soaking in the culture. Santorini wines are delicious and unique thanks to the island’s volcanic soil. Santo Wines are the most popular but we preferred the Venetsanos Winery which you visit on the above tour. Booking a tour that involves wine tastings is a fantastic way to learn about the wine region and process. We recommend jumping on a sunset tour with 8 tastings at two different Santorini wineries before watching the sunset over the caldera in Oia.

14. Santorini Wine Museum

fun things to do in Santorini Drinking Greek Wine

To complement your tour, a visit to the Santorini Wine Museum is a must. The museum is part of the Koutsoyannopoulos Winery, one of the oldest family wineries in Santorini, which provides an intimate look at the tradition of winemaking passed down through generations.

The museum is located in a natural cave and is 8 meters below ground. It represents a labyrinth-like winery that dates back to the 19th century. Visitors can learn about the history of winemaking in Santorini, which spans over 3000 years, and the evolution of the winemaking process. Museum of Prehistoric Thera

15. Visit Perissa Beach (Black Sand Beach)

Best Things to do in Santorini Visit the Black Sand Beach

Perrisa Beach is a beach located in the south of Santorini Island. The black beach is lined with cafes, beach bars, and restaurants it is the ideal place to escape the hectic and often crowded city of Oia. We suggest spending a couple of nights here rather than simply taking a day trip.

An astounding 6 km long beach made of black volcanic sand is located between Perissa and Perivolos. We stayed nearby for 2 nights on Santorini and loved hanging out on Black Beach all morning as we sat under an umbrella sipping cappuccinos. Read more: Where to Stay in Santorini

16. Kamari Beach

best things to do in Santorini Kamari Beach

Located about 8km from Fira, Kamari Beach is similar to Perissa Beach. This picturesque black sand beach is known for its massive rock that separates the Kamari and Perissa Beaches just north of Perissa Beach. Unfortunately, you will have to navigate to the other side of the rocky outcrop that separates them.

There are the usual sunbeds, umbrellas, and watersports to be had. At Kamari Beach, you will also find great dining options and cafes and hotels. Whether you choose Perissa Beach or Kamari Beach you won’t be disappointed. Suggested Hotel near the beaches – Suites of the Gods in Megalochori

We stayed in the nearby town of Megalohori where we had our own cave hotel villa with a private pool. Here we had the chance to shop for local cuisine and wine. We then locked ourselves in our private getaway. Nobody could bother us and we had our own Greek snacks and drinks at hand as we lazed in the sun free from anyone else intruding on our secluded getaway. Read More about our Cave Hotel Experience – Iconic Santorini: A Cave Hotel Experience

17. Horseback Riding To Eros Beach

Santorini is famous for its black sand beaches and for the ultimate in romance, book a horseback riding tour on Eros Beach. The tour takes you through Megalochori village and a ride along the paths of the vineyards before arriving at the iconic black sand beach.

18. Perivolos Beach

Best Things to do in Santorini Perivolos Beach

Perivolos Beach is located on the southern coast of Santorini, this beach is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches on the island. The black sand and pebbles, azure Aegean waters, and stunning surrounding cliffs make it a picturesque spot to relax and take in the beauty of nature.

This beach has numerous beach bars, cafes, and restaurants lining the coast, offering everything from casual snacks to gourmet dining. It’s also a hotspot for water sports. Whether you are into jet-skiing, paddleboarding, or windsurfing, there are plenty of opportunities to get active in the water. Some providers offer snorkeling and diving trips as well.

Perivolos is one of the top spots for the island’s nightlife. Many of the beach bars host parties during the summer months, with DJs playing music late into the night. It’s a great place to dance, socialize, and enjoy the island’s festive atmosphere.

19. Hike to Red Beach

best things to do in Santorini Red Beach hike

Located near the town of Akrotiri, Red Beach is a spectacular site with high red sea cliffs jutting up from a red sand beach. It is a bit of a trek to get there, but boat tours also stop for a swim at Red Beach.

This is a popular stop for day cruises and sailing cruises, but it is nice to visit early in the day when the crowds are low. Using our car rental, we drove to the parking lot, packed a picnic, and spent the morning on Red Beach taking in the gorgeous views. If you do plan to head to this beach when you visit Santorini, be aware that there have been falling rocks from the cliff itself so be careful.

20. Visit White Beach

best things to do in Santorini White Beach

Literally just around the corner from the Red Beach is White Beach. It gets its name from the surrounding white cliffs that are quite a contrast to the red ones just beside it. What we found interesting is that the sand here is actually black. I guess that is because we are on a volcanic island. So don’t make the journey out there expecting to find powder-white sand.

The best way to get to White Beach is by boat. We parked at the Red Beach lot and took a water taxi to get there. If you are not into that you can admire it from a boat tour should you choose to do one.

21. Get off the Beaten Path in Pyrgos

Best things to do in Santorini Pyrgos

Located in the foothills of Mount Profitis Ilias this small town was originally the capital of Santorini. This medieval settlement is a hidden gem in Santorini and definitely worth a visit. We got lost wandering its back streets and loved spending time here. It is different than the bustling towns of Fira and Oia and offers a tranquil yet local experience that is lacking in other parts of the island.

22. Profitis Ilia Monastery: the Best View of Santorini

best things to do in Santorini Profitis Ilia Monastery

While in Pyrgos, we do recommend heading up to the Profitis Ilia Monastery. You can hike up here from the village or drive up. Whichever way you choose you won’t be disappointed by the panoramic views of the whole island on display from the highest point in Santorini.

Mount Profitis stands at 584 meters above sea level. Located at the top of Mount Profitis, the monastery of Profitis Ilias (Prophet Elias) is the oldest on the island. It is just 3km from Pyrgos, so it is a good addition to your day trip the former capital of Santorini. We didn’t go at sunset, but we hear it is an absolutely beautiful view as the sun goes down.

23. Explore Akrotiri Archeological Site

best things to do in Santorini Ancient Ruins of Akrotiri

Greece is known for its ancient ruins and the ancient settlements of Santorini are no exception. The ancient city of Akrotiri dates back to the Bronze Age (3000 – 1200 BC). This archaeological site was buried by the ash of a volcanic eruption, the antiquities and frescoes are quite well preserved. While this is a popular tourist attraction, visiting the town of Akrotiri is also a must. Not a lot of people spend time in the village so it has a nice small village feel.

24. Visit The Akrotiri Lighthouse

Best Things to do in Santorini visit the Akrotiri Lighthouse

Located on the southern tip of Santorini, the Akrotiri Lighthouse offers yet another amazing view of the island. This is a perfect alternative to Oia for sunset and is easily reached by car or ATV. You won’t be fighting any crowds here and if you are on a romantic vacation then grabbing a bottle of wine and some food is the perfect way to enjoy this viewpoint.

Don’t expect too much from the lighthouse itself, it is the breathtaking views and quiet that you are visiting the Akrotiri Lighthouse for after all.

25. Visit the Museums of Prehistoric Thera

If you like museums and want to learn a bit about Santorini’s history make sure to visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera where you can see the finds from the excavations of Akrotiri. In 1600 BC, it was destroyed by a huge volcanic eruption covering it in ash which helped to preserve its remains which were discovered in 1967. The most notable find? Fossilized olive tree leaves from within the caldera.

26. Archaeological Museum of Thera

There is also the Archaeological Museum of Thera which is located in the town of Fira. This particular museum features collections from all the different sites around Santorini. If you are on a family trip this is a great way to spend a few hours learning about the history of this Greek island.

27. Explore Ancient Thera

best things to do in Santorini Ancient Thera on the volcanic island

Located on the top of Mesa Vouno Mountain between Perissa and Kamarion the high cliffs that separate Kamari and Perissa beaches, Ancient Thera is a sight not to be missed. This ancient settlement is so well preserved because of the ash from the volcanic eruption and the views are spectacular. It may not be the highest point on the island, but you can see almost 360 degrees. When you get to the top you’ll have beautiful views as you explore this archaeological site.

There are a couple of ways to reach Ancient Thera. You can hike up from either Perissa or Kamari, both will take you about an hour and can be strenuous depending on your fitness level. the other way is to take the winding road from Kamari and drive up. This is a harrowing drive however is probably best done on an ATV rather than in a rental car.

28. Book a Quad Bike Tour

Best Things to do in Santorini Quad Bike Tour

If you don’t want to rent a car, book a quad bike tour. This ATV tour includes lunch and takes you to local villages and beaches. You’ll drive between viewpoints and beaches as you immerse in the local culture.

29. Enjoy a Greek Cooking Class

Best Things to do in Santorini cooking class

Learning to cook traditional Greek food was one of the best things we did in greece. We take a lot of cooking classes whenever we travel and Greek food is the most delicious food.

When you learn how to make iconic food in the destination, it makes for a special experience when you come home to relive your Santorini vacation. So take a cooking class in Santorini that includes wine tasting experience at two wineries and a chance to sample your hard work at the end!

30. Sunset Dine at Amoudi Bay

Best Things to do in Santorini Amoudi Bay

Be sure to walk down the path to the beach of Oia. at Amoudi Bay. 300 steps down is a completely different atmosphere to Amoudi Bay. The small village has several tavernas and there is a popular beach. If you want a little adrenaline in Oia, you can do some cliff jumping too!

Late afternoon is a popular time of day to visit to snuggle up at a taverna and watch the sunset.

31. Stay In A Cave Hotel

Best Things to do in Santorini Stay in a Luxurious Hotel

Part of the attraction of Santorini is experiencing the luxury and elegance of the white cave hotels. When you get out of the taxi and walk up to the caldera for the first time, the view literally takes your breath away. Read our full guide: Where to Stay in Santorini

Best things to do in Santorini hot tub views

I honestly gasped at Santorini’s beauty when seeing it for the first time. If there is one time to splurge on a hotel in your life, this is the time to do it. We stayed in three different luxury hotels in Santorini and each one made the trip even more special. Each one had its own private terrace as well as a hot tub. In Imerovigli stay at Hotel Iconic for a luxury experience.

32. Lookout from Infinity Pools

Best Things to do in Santorini Infinity pool

Santorini is famous for its infinity pools overlooking the caldera. When choosing a hotel, book one with a swimming pool that has a view of the caldera. Suggested Oia Hotel with Infinity Pool View: Andronis Luxury Cave Hotel in Oia

The crowds can be overwhelming in Fira, Oia, and Imerviglia, but if you have a room at a cave hotel, you will be able to bask in the sun by the infinity pool and have the most spectacular meal in peace and quiet. No matter how busy the streets of Santorini get or how packed they are with cruisers and tourists, you’ll have a quiet sanctuary in your cave hotel.

33. Dine with a View of Santorini

Best Things to do in Santorini Food

There are numerous restaurants in Oia serving delicious Greek cuisine. Some of the best restaurants are inland along one of the many cobblestone streets, but nothing says romance like toast over one of the most magnificent views in the world.

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

34. Scuba Diving in Santorini

Best things to do in santorini boat in caldera

Have you ever wanted to dive in a caldera? This scuba diving experience offers two dives where you’ll dive into the volcanic site of the Santorini caldera. Enjoy wrecks, caverns, volcanic reefs, and wall dives. This tour lasts five hours offering not only beautiful underwater views but breathtaking views of the entire island from the sea.

35. Have a Fish Pedicure

Best Top things to do in Santorini Fish Pedicure

It may not be one of the typical things to do in Santorini, but after all that walking, a fish spa is just what your feet require. We always wanted to do a fish spa but wondered just how clean they’d be in places like Thailand or Cambodia. So when exploring Oia we saw a fish spa and said “let’s do it!” It is one of the most unique spas you’ll ever have.

36. Hike out to Skaros Rock

best things to do in Santorinini Hiking out to Skaros Rock

Skaros Rock was a former fortress and prominent headland that is visible from most of the caldera side hotels. Located at the tip of Imerovigli you will pass right by it if you are hiking from Fira to Oia. The hike out to Skaros Rock is about 30 minutes along a hiking trail and is well worth it. One of the things we loved from this vantage point is that you can see the North and south ends of the island as well as the Caldera.

The hike itself starts at the top of the winding staircase just below the Grace Hotel in Imerovigli. It is a fairly easy path to follow (although there are no real signs) and only becomes a bit challenging at the very end.

37. Watch a Movie in the Open Air Cinema

Best Things to do in Santorini Open Air cinema

If you are looking for something unique to do in Santorini there is an open-air cinema in Kamari village. When traveling, we miss going to the movies, so it is nice to have a night out. Plus, you can enjoy a movie with a glass of wine and popcorn on the beach! Kamari is one of the most visited beaches in Santorini and there are plenty of places to stay nearby.

38. Get Lost Imerovigli

best things to do in Santorini Imerovigli

There are many villages to see on Santorini and the best way to really explore the island is to rent a car. We got a steal in the offseason on a small-budget car and set out each day to explore somewhere new. Renting a car in Santorini is an excellent way to find secluded beaches, quiet restaurants, and hidden markets.

One of the best places to stay in Santorini is Imerovigli. Located between Fira and Oia, it isn’t as crowded as the two, but it is just as gorgeous. You can expect the same beautiful whitewashed houses, blue domes, and extraordinary sunsets over the caldera. Stay at the Iconic Santorini and take your breakfast on your balcony as you enjoy fresh yogurt while watching the sunrise.

39. And Firostefani

Best things to do in Santorini Firostefani

Firostefani is a picturesque village located in the north of Santorini, just 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 overlooking the caldera, offering some of the most stunning views on the island.

Firostefani, like its neighbors Fira and Oia, is known for its spectacular caldera views. The contrast of the white buildings against the blue sea and sky is truly breathtaking, especially at sunset. It’s a perfect place for photographers and anyone looking to take in the natural beauty of Santorini. The iconic blue domed church, known as Agios Theodoros, is one of the most photographed sites on the island and can be found in Firostefani.

40. Thirassia island

best things to do in Santorini Thirassia island

For a day on the sea, this full day boat tour includes a stunning tour to see the caldera cliffs from the sea, a volcano tour to Thirassia island where you swim in hot springs, and a chance to relax on the beach. You’ll also visit the spiral staircase of the traditional village of Manola on this small group tour. It ends with a trip to Oia to witness one of its incredible sunsets.

41. Jet Ski Safari

If you are looking for something that involves a little more adrenaline, book a Jet Ski Safari. This tour includes a jet ski experience from Perivolis Beach. This private tour takes you sightseeing along the coast of Santorini to enjoy its natural landscape from Red Beach, Kampia Beach, Vlyhada Beach, and Kampia Beach.

42. Marvel at the Caldera

best things to do in santorini caldera view

Santorini was formed in 1620 BC by a massive volcanic eruption that created the caldera that the island overlooks today. The earth was covered with water creating the Santorini Caldera and spurring the legend of the lost city of Atlantis. Be sure to stay at a cave hotel that overlooks the caldera to take in views from sunrise to sunset.

Getting around Santorini

best things to do in Santorini Car rental

When booking a trip to Santorini, we highly recommend renting a car. You can rent small cars for reasonable prices right on the island, with your flight, or book them in advance.

If you don’t want to rent a car, Santorini has a surprisingly excellent transportation system. You can take the local bus from the airport to Fira. Buses also run between Oia, Imerovigli, Perissa, Kamari, and Akrotiri.

Get Your Guide offers airport transfers and transfer services on the island. As of now, there is no Uber or Lyft on Santorini. Taxis are plentiful on the island. Agree on the price before getting in.

How Long Should You Spend in Santorini?

best things to do in Santorini whitewashed villages

We recommend a minimum of three days in Santorini. That will give you enough time to visit the three main villages of Oia, Imerovigli, and Fira.

We spent 8 days in Santorini, but you don’t have to spend that long. Although, we found it to be just enough time for the perfect blend of relaxation and sightseeing, so if you can do a week, that is ideal.

Day 1 – You can spend a day shopping in Fira, taking in the views from the cable car or overlooking the caldera and then walking from Fira to Oia where you can enjoy some time admiring the blue domes and Amoudi Bay. Then you can watch the sunset at Oia Castle followed by a traditional Greek dinner overlooking the caldera.

Day 2 – You can then head out to one of the beaches of Perissa or Kamari followed by a sunset tour to Red Beach and the Hot Springs.

Day 3 – This is a good day to take in the culture and history of Santorini to visit the archaeological sites of either Akrotori or Ancient Thera. Then visit the former capital of Santorini, Pyrgos. End your day with a sunset wine tasting.

Three days are just enough to explore Santorini, but to truly take it in, we recommend a week. You will want to enjoy relaxing moments at your infinity pool, quiet solitude at your cave hotel, and many nights to sample the world-class restaurants.

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

Note: We split up 2 nights in Imerovigli, 3 nights in Oia, and 3 nights at the beach and it was a perfect way to see all the best places in Santorini at our own pace. Check out: Where to Stay in Santorini

We then caught the ferry to Crete and continued our Greek adventure!

How to get to Santorini, Greece

best things to do in santorini Getting there

We flew from Santorini to Athens. It was quick and easy and by purchasing our flight and hotel together we saved big. There are flights daily from Athens and Ferries daily from Athens year-round.

We left Santorini by ferry direct to Crete. Ferries depart and arrive daily from the old port and we grabbed a ferry to Crete to continue exploring the Greek Islands. The best way to research ferries to Santorini is at The Ferry Hopper.

Day Trips to Other Greek Islands

best things to do in santorini Day Trips

Santorini is a great jumping-off point to visit some of the many Greek islands in the area. This private boat tour caters to up to 9 people. You have the option to privately rent this RIB with a 225hp Mercury outboard engine (boat license needed) or you can hire a skipper to go island hopping.

Islands you can visit include Anafi, Ios, Folegandros, Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, Milos, Koufonisia, Sikinos, Serifos, Sifnos, Delos, Kythnos.

Best Things to Do in Santorini FAQ

best things to do in santorini faqs

What should I not miss in Santorini?

If you only have a short time in Santorini, you should not miss seeing the blue dome churches of Oia and watching the sunset from the castle. You should also take a catamaran tour to the active volcanic islands Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni which lie in the caldera’s center to swim in the hot springs, and enjoy panoramic views

What should we do in Santorini?

The top thing to see in Santorini is its famous blue domes of Oia and its plunging cliffs into the caldera. You should book a hotel with an infinity pool overlooking the caldera views of the Aegean Sea.

What is Santorini best known for?

Santorini is famous for its whitewashed villages and blue domes on high cliffs overlooking the caldera.

Are things expensive in Santorini?

The luxury cave hotels of Santorini are expensive, but you can get good deals in the shoulder season (autumn and spring). There are also affordable hotels in Santorini to suit all budgets.

fun things to do in Santorini

As you can tell we really loved our time in Santorini. If you are thinking of planning a trip to the island we hope that we have given you some ideas of the best things to do in Santorini. Tell us what your favorite things to do in Santorini are. I am sure we missed something.

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine, the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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52 thoughts on “42 Best Things to Do in Santorini, Greece In 2024”

  1. Wow absolutely amazing pictures guys! Santorini looks incredible and I really want to visit – thanks for sharing!

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  2. Santorini is my dream destination, I will go there very soon.

    Thanks for your awesome travel guide.
    Photos are really mind-blowing.

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  3. Great article.
    Greece is such a wonderful place to go.
    Reading these blogs maks m feel that I am actually there.
    Hope I can make it soon.
    Thanks for sharing this.
    Cheers!!!

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  4. We totally fell in love with the island and cannot wait to visit again. There are way to many beaches that we would love to go back to. I managed to do one of the sailing tours and go to see a couple more that are definitely going on the list for the next visit.

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  5. Oh it’s just wonderful. Historic and modern, for old souls and young ones. Just amazing.

    P.S. Please make a guide for Serbia, it’s the only one missing for the Balkan area, and I was really looking forward to that one.

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  6. Santorini is at the top of my bucket list….
    I have heard so much about it that I would feel really unlucky if I miss visiting arguably the most popular island destination in the world…
    Nice photos by the way…

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  7. Sounds heavenly! Now Greece is the next destination in my wishlist, Awesome post and fantastic photos! Santorini to Crete it was a beautiful country all in all and the ‘FOOD’ it’s an ultimate experience. 😉

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    • It was our dream for a very long time. I had wanted to see Santorini for years. I know you’ll get there soon 🙂

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  8. Wow, love this! My husband and I were in Santorini for a bit last year and it was amazing. Before we went we were afraid it was kind of the first Greek island you think of, and “I hope it’s not too touristy.” So pleasantly surprised! We staid in Oia, during off season, and it was incredibly, dare I say… rural. An amazing time, I just can’t wait to go back again some time. If you’re interested, check out my post on it here: http://www.cameraandcarryon.com/2014/07/10-reasons-why-id-live-in-santorini/

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  9. Wonderful pictures 🙂 I am so going to Santorini this summer, haven’t booked it yet but I am going no matter what. It is on my bucket list for this years travel.

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  10. Dave and Deb, it’s always such a pleasure to read about your travel journeys. The pictures are so beautiful. Santorini seems like a perfect destination for couples. Reading about your Santorini experience from my cozy couch was an absolute delight!.

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    • Thank you Zoey! You are right, it’s perfect for couples, I can’t imagine visiting it solo. I have to say, I think if I were there alone, I’d be yearning to have a loved one with me, it’s just too romantic!

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  11. I see pictures of Santorini every time I go on Pinterest. Looks like such a beautiful place. One day! Great photos as always.

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  12. The Greek islands have always been at the top of my bucket list, and this makes me even more eager to go. Your photos are spectacular — Santorini looks almost too good to be true. I would have wondered about the weather in October, but from these shots, it looks more than fine. I can see you enjoyed yourselves!

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  13. Beautiful! reminded me of our trip in Greece.. From Athens to, Santorini to Crete it was a beautiful country all in all and the ‘FOOD’ it’s an ultimate experience. 😉

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  14. Awesome post and fantastic photos! We went to Mykonos a few years ago and fell in love with it there. Mykonos can get a bit crazy in peak season. We went in May luckily. Do you know if Santorini is similar like that?

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  15. Wow, these pictures are absolutely gorgeous. We’re going to Italy this summer and a visit to Greece is an option too. Santorini has always been a place that I’d like to see.

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