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Santorini is a magical island known for breathtaking landscapes, stunning sunsets, whitewashed buildings, and blue-domed churches. Not to forget, the red beaches and clear blue waters await to give you an excitement overload!

Here’s a complete guide to help you plan a fun-filled trip to Santorini. A trip to the island is never complete without exploring the following attractions!


1. Watch the Sunset

Sunset at Oia
Oia, the most popular spot for watching the sunset in Santorini

The Greek island is known for its incredible sunsets. To experience it at its best, you must go to Oia. Standing at the top of a ruined castle near the windmill, you’ll witness a magical sight that will leave you spell-bounded when the sun goes down the horizon. Just a heads-up, if you visit in the high season, you may find yourself jumping over a train of heads to get a glimpse of the sunset.

The Akrotiri lighthouse is a great alternative place to experience the remoteness of the sunset. Enjoy some quality time with your loved one, looking at a boat sailing into the setting sun at this relatively less crowded spot.

Another perfect way to experience the natural beauty and stunning sunset of Santorini is by joining sunset cruises. Choose your favorite tour and vessel for an unforgettable experience!


2. Enjoy a Catamaran Cruise around the island

The Catamaran cruise is another must-try thing in Santorini, especially if you’re on a short trip. Get a chance to explore all the top attractions of the island as well as enjoy swimming in the crystal clear waters of Red Beach and White Beach. Delve into delicious Santorini food while looking at the magnificent views of the caldera cliffs and volcanic islands.

Book now a catamaran cruise which is undoubtedly the best experience one can have in Santorini!

3. A Therapeutic Walk at Oia, Pyrgos, and Fira

Caldera is one of the most beautiful sights in Santorini. Created after a huge volcanic eruption, this island stands on a cliff. Rejuvenate your soul with a walk around whitewashed houses in daylight. The nightlife in Caldera is also amazing, creating the perfect atmosphere for a romantic night out.

You can also enjoy a walk to the nearby villages, including Pyrgos Castelli and Oia. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, you’ll love hiking from Fira to Oia while admiring the beauty of Caldera. You can spend some time in Oia, the most picturesque village of Santorini. You’ll find yourself dancing among pearly white buildings and blue-domed churches. It is the ideal place to unwind and enjoy the peace, saying goodbye to all your worries. Also, every view makes for a perfect backdrop for your pictures.

Pyrgos is yet another popular village of Santorini that offers panoramic views of both sides of the island. It features stunning views of green valleys, blue seas, and architectural structures.


4. Visit the Volcano and Enjoy Swimming in the Hot Springs

A volcano tour is the best way to indulge in the rich volcanic history of the island. It is the perfect activity for thrill-seekers to get the adrenaline rush of hiking up the famous volcano as well as swimming in the healing waters of hot springs.

Several boat tours allow you to swim in the therapeutic waters while enjoying appetizing food and drinks. You’re bound to have the time of your life on a boat tour with your family or friends!


5. Swim in the Black Beach

If you’re on a romantic trip with your partner, Perivolos beach is a must-visit spot. This lively beach offers the ultimate retreat for relaxation and entertainment. Covered in black sand and sparkling waters, it also invites adventure lovers to engage in thrilling water sport activities, such as Jet Ski Safari. Here you will find the most beach bars on the island playing loud music all day long.

On the other hand, if you want to spend quality time with your family near the waters, Perissa or Kamari beach is the answer! This place offers a heartwarming view with crystal blue water dancing over the sandy sea bottom. This beach offers comfortable facilities and luxury amenities to make your family trip memorable.


6. Experience Unique Hues on the Red Beach

Located near Akrotiri village, the Red Beach is a top attraction in Santorini. The red-colored steep hills, cliffs, and sands create wild scenery. The red pebbles in the sea complement the crystal blue waters and make an exquisite palette of contrasting colors.

Several catamaran cruises sail near the Red Beach, offering you the pleasure of swimming in the clear blue waters of Santorini!


7. Delish Dinner at Ammoudi

Ammoudi is a unique spot in Oia famous for its hospitality and delicious food. You’ll find plenty of fish taverns there that serve fresh fish for all those crazy seafood lovers. There’s no dining experience better than enjoying a platter of seafood and local recipes while taking in the majestic beauty of Santorini island.

Make sure you treat your taste buds with the best-tasting food in Santorini while being surrounded by welcoming people. You can even swim in crystalline waters or go diving if you dare!


8. Go Wine-Tasting at Santo Wines or Venetsanos Winery

Another thing that every tourist must know about Santorini is that it has incredible wine!

You can enjoy premium-quality wine at one of the finest wineries located in Pyrgos village. You can taste a variety of wines in a well-decorated outdoor space while enjoying lounge or live music. This spot gives you a dreamy view of the breathtaking Caldera, the volcano, and the mighty Aegean Sea. If you’re thinking of bringing your partner here, you should consider visiting in the evening when the place gets really romantic with the sunset colors.

You can join one of the many bus tours that take you to different wineries for wine tasting.


9. Visit the Charming Prophet Elias Monastery

Several churches are scattered over Santorini Island. You will find everything from small chapels to large monasteries. One major attraction is the Prophet Elias Monastery that resembles a fortress from the outside.

Apart from its rich history, it is known for being the highest point from where you can admire an exclusive view of Santorini. The monastery is surrounded by four small chapels and is one of the best places to take photographs.


10. Akrotiri Excavations

While you are in Santorini, you will regret not taking the opportunity to see the excavations of the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri. You can actually walk through the debris of this well-maintained town and be transferred to the prehistoric era. It is a must-visit place for people who find pleasure in learning about history and exploring archeological sites. Some important finds are also exhibited and you can admire them at the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira.

You can complete your journey in the history and mythology of the island with a visit to the Lost Atlantis Experience Museum. The first interactive museum in the world for the theory of Atlantis and the connection with Santorini.

Several routes take you to the historical site. The best way to make the most of your trip is by joining a bus tour, as it gives you a chance to explore the natural beauty of Santorini as well as learn about its rich history.


11. Taste the Local Cuisine

The fertile land of Santorini Island produces unique products that are known for their mouthwatering taste. The secret lies in the volcanic nature of the land. Your trip to this island will be incomplete without visiting a traditional tavern to taste local dishes, such as fava, tomato fritters, melitzanosalata (made from white eggplants), Greek salad with capers and wine. You must also go to a sea tavern to try fresh fish and seafood while enjoying majestic views of the island.

As a food lover, you will love Greek cuisine, as it is extremely tasty. And the fresh products of Santorini just take it a step further! Besides, you’ll get a chance to meet and blend in with locals and enjoy the warm Greek hospitality.

To relish your trip to the fullest with amazing dining experiences, make sure you enjoy food and drink tours. Combining the pleasure of eating and traveling will just make your vacation extraordinary!




Now, obviously, the top things to do in Santorini may vary based on your traveling needs and preferences. You might want to try different things when you’re traveling alone or with friends than what you would usually do when enjoying yourself with your partner or family.
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What are the best things to do in Santorini for Honeymoon Travelers?


Stay at a Hotel on the Caldera

If you’re on your honeymoon, you have to stay at a hotel on the Caldera, no questions asked! Try to find a hotel that has a private pool – it may be expensive but will totally be worth it!


Book a Romantic Cruise

Explore the beautiful Santorini Island with your loved one on a romantic cruise. A private cruise is the best bet for honeymoon travelers, who are looking forward to a private and intimate getaway.


Dinner at Ammoudi or a Restaurant on the Caldera

You can enjoy a memorable dinner at Ammoudi or a lavish restaurant at Caldera. Delve into the traditional dishes of Santorini and treat your taste buds like never before!


Visit Santo Wines or Venetsanos Winery

You will have a wine tasting experience full of tastes and aromas at the most outstanding wineries on the island.


Visit Oia or Pyrgos

There’s no better way of enjoying your honeymoon than exploring Oia and Pyrgos. Trust us when we say that it’ll be an experience you and your partner will cherish for a lifetime!


Swim at Eros Beach

If you and your loved one enjoy swimming, make sure you visit Eros Beach for a fun-filled adventure. You can swim to your heart’s content and then relax by the beach, soaking the sun with your partner.




What are the best things to do for Couples?


Book a Private Cruise

Looking to make the most of your trip to Santorini with your girlfriend/boyfriend?

Do you plan to propose the love of your life at the top romantic destination in Greece?

Don’t forget to book a catamaran cruise or private motor yacht cruise (if you want to make your proposal extra special). Choose a tour around sunset time to ensure the atmosphere is as romantic as possible.


Enjoy Cocktails at PK Bar

You can also enjoy your favorite cocktail at PK Bar while enjoying the natural landscape of Fira.


Indulge in Your Favorite Activities

For adventure enthusiasts, there are many water sport activities. You will love riding a jet ski safari with your partner around the world-famous volcano. You can also go parasailing and explore the whole island from the top. At Eros Beach, you can swim all your worries and fatigue away with your partner.

You can also experience the thrill of riding an ATV bike with your partner in Santorini.


Delve into a Delicious Dinner

The fastest way to someone’s heart is through their stomach! Don’t forget to enjoy a romantic dinner with your loved one in a fish tavern at Ammoudi or in a restaurant at Caldera.


Visit the Prophet Elias Monastery

If you and your partner are history fans, the Prophet Elias Monastery is a must-visit place! This tall structure offers breathtaking views over the entire Santorini Island.




What are the best things to do for a Group of Friends?


Book a Catamaran or Sailing Cruise

Santorini is a great place to make endless memories with your friends. If you are a group of 10 or more people, you should consider booking a private catamaran cruise. There’s no experience like a boat party with friends!


Enjoy a Refreshing Swim at Perivolos Beach

You can also swim at Perivolos Beach and then have your favorite drinks at a variety of beach bars. The most popular bars are the Jojo Beach Bar and Wet Stories. Also, if you’re all sporty, nothing can beat the fun of playing volleyball on Perivolos Beach.


Party at the Night Clubs

At night, you can walk down the streets to enjoy the amazing nightlife of Santorini and plan nights out at Koo Club, Two Brothers, or Murphy’s Club.




What are the best things to do for a Family?


Book a Boat Volcano Tour

The best thing to do Santorini for families is the boat volcano tours. You can book a catamaran cruise during the daytime for swimming and chilling by the sea or a sunset cruise with a traditional boat that resembles a pirate ship.


Eat at a Traditional Greek Tavern

Don’t forget to enjoy a wholesome meal at a traditional Greek tavern, where you will be welcomed like special guests. Not only does the food taste amazing but also the people are super friendly and kind.


Have Fun at the Beach

You can also have fun swimming or simply unwinding by Kamari and Perissa beach with your spouse and kids. You can play some games or simply sit back and enjoy the peace.


Go Wine Tasting

Wine tasting is also a great option in Santorini for families, as the wineries usually have plenty of space to accommodate kids.




What are the best things to do for a Solo Traveler?


Stay at Fira

For solo travelers, Fira is the best place to stay since it is the capital of Santorini. You will get a chance to meet new people, make friends, and enjoy the nightlight of the island in the best possible way. At clubs, like Two Brothers, Murphy’s Club, and Highlander Club, you will come across friendly, welcoming people who won’t let you get bored.


Enjoy a Boat Tour

Moreover, join a boat party at sunset and make memories with random strangers. The Sunset Red Cruise accommodates up to 55 people, so there’s no chance you will feel lonely!


Rejuvenate at the Beach

You can also enjoy some me-time at Perivolos Beach and visit the finest beach bar on the island. Watch the waves crashing at the shore while reading a book or sipping on your favorite drink or dive in the deep blue waters for a refreshing swim.


Hike all the Way from Fira to Oia

Many solo travelers love hiking the path from Fira to Oia and visiting the castles of Santorini. Even if historical sites don’t mesmerize you, you should visit at least one of the castles to witness their unique beauty.


Book a Bus Tour

The best way to explore all the top sights in Santorini is by booking a bus tour. Moreover, if you like taking photographs, you can even sign up for a photo tour in Santorini!




What are the best things to do for Economical Travelers?


Sign Up for a Volcano Tour

If you want to explore the entire island of Santorini on a fixed budget, you should start by booking a volcano tour. You can hike on the volcano as well as swim in hot springs.


Spend Your Nights at Kamari or Perissa

You will get a chance to spend your nights enjoying a romantic walk with your loved one on Kamari or Perissa Beach. These beaches offer an ideal spot for spending your nights filled with peace and serenity.


Explore the Island on a Bus Tour

Ideally, the most cost-effective option is to book a bus tour that will take you to visit all the top attractions in Santorini.




What are the best things to do for Cruise Ship Passengers?


Book a Private Bus Tour

It is best for cruise ship passengers to book a private bus tour for seeing the top sights in Santorini. Not only will it help you save money but also your time.


Have the Time of Your Life on a Private Cruise

If you are a sea lover, booking a private cruise is a must! The beauty that lies in the crystalline waters of the island cannot be described in words!

We can arrange accommodation to pick up and drop you off at Old Port of Fira where the cruise ship departs.


Admire the View of the Caldera

Before taking the cable car to Old Port, don’t forget to stop by to explore Caldera and admire the breathtaking views it offers.




You should also keep the duration of your trip in mind when planning a fun-filled vacation. Here’s the ultimate guide to making things easier for you!
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What can you do in Santorini in 1 day?

If you only have a day to spend in Santorini and don’t want to miss out on any major attraction on the island, you should consider starting by booking a catamaran cruise, a private yacht cruise, or a volcano tour in the morning. A catamaran or private cruise will take you to Red Beach, White Beach, and the hot springs. If you decide to book one of these cruises, we suggest you end your day by watching the breathtaking sunset on board.

If you go for a volcano tour, you will get a chance to visit the hot springs and hike on the volcano. You will also get plenty of time to explore Fira and shop until you drop. Basically, Fira and Oia are the best places to witness the beauty of Caldera. For the sunset, however, you should consider visiting Oia.




What can you do in Santorini in 2 days?

Day 1:

Start by visiting Fira on the first day of your trip. It’s the best place for shopping and admiring the magical Caldera view. Then, you should consider booking a catamaran cruise or a volcano tour. Try to get a sunset catamaran cruise or a private sunset cruise, as the island’s beauty magnifies when the sun is going down. You will also get a chance to visit Red Beach, White Beach, and hot springs.

At the end of day 1, you can enjoy a night out in Fira. Sip on your favorite cocktail at PK Bar while indulging in the beauty of Caldera.


Day 2:

On day 2, make sure you visit a black beach for a refreshing swim. You can go to Perivolos Beach if you are with friends and looking for fun. On the other hand, Kamari and Perissa beaches are ideal for families with kids, as they are more peaceful.

That being said, Perivolos beach offers an excellent opportunity to explore the beauty of Santorini Island on a jet ski safari. Ride a jet ski for an exciting tour to the volcano. In the evening, start moving toward Oia so that you don’t miss the sunset. End your trip with a delicious dinner at Ammoudi!




What can you do in Santorini in 3 days?

Day 1:

Day 1 in Santorini should always begin with traveling around, shopping, and admiring the natural views in Fira. You can then book a catamaran cruise or a volcano tour during the sunset time. A catamaran or private cruise will take you to visit Red Beach, White Beach, and hot springs and then finally to witness the popular sunset of Oia.

The nightlife at Fira is also amazing. You can go to the PK bar to enjoy some drinks or simply admire the Caldera view at night.


Day 2:

You can give a refreshing start to the second day by swimming on a black beach. As discussed above, Perivolos Beach is ideal for a group of friends. You can enjoy a jet ski ride there to the volcano. On the other hand, Perissa and Kamari beaches are perfect for spending some quality time with family.

At night, you should consider unwinding with a walk at the shore of Kamari beach. We are sure that you will love the peace and quiet there. You can also find an excellent dining place there or probably at Metaxi mas. The Kantouni Restaurant and Taverna Pyrgos are also great places for having an appetizing dinner in Pyrgos village.


Day 3:

Enjoy a full-day bus tour on day 3, where you will visit Akrotiri excavation, Profilits Iliias, and all other major attractions in Santorini. The tour will end at Oia, allowing you to witness the magical sunset at the most beautiful spot. After the tour, you can visit Ammoudi for a perfect dining experience with your family or friends.




What can you do in Santorini in 5 days?

Day 1 (Same As the Day 1 of 3-Day Visit):

If you are going to spend five days in Santorini, make sure you explore Fira on day 1. Go shopping or simply enjoy the picturesque views of Caldera. You can also go for a volcano tour to hike and swim in the therapeutic waters or book a catamaran cruise for visiting Red Beach, White Beach, and hot springs. Make sure you stop at Oia to witness the most magical sunset of your life!

After spending the entire day exploring the island’s capital, you can relax and sip on your favorite cocktail at PK Bar in Caldera.


Day 2 (Same As the Day 2 of 2-Day Visit):

One of the best things about Santorini is its beaches. You can spend day 2 swimming and chilling at a black beach. If you’re on a friends’ trip, you might want to go to Perivolos beach because it is more adventurous, offering jet ski rides over the vast waters to the volcano.

For a more peaceful experience, however, Perissa and Kamari beaches are the best bet! You can enjoy some me-time or have fun with your spouse and kids. That being said, head over to Oia for the sunset and then enjoy a hearty dinner at Ammoudi.


Day 3:

Spend day 3 at another black beach and enjoy a delicious lunch near the waters. In the evening, go to a winery for wine tasting while admiring the beautiful Caldera view. Consider visiting the Santo Wine or Venetsanos Winery for the perfect sunset view.

At night, you can have a delicious dinner at Metaxi mas. This place serves the best traditional Santorinian food. You will be welcomed with warm smiles and good spirits before you are served with authentic, fresh dishes. After dinner, you can enjoy a romantic walk with your loved one on Kamari beach.


Day 4:

Save day 4 for exploring the Red Beach and the excavations of Akrotiri. While these places are not too far away, you can book a bus tour, where a professional guide will accompany you to make your trip both informative and exciting.

Apart from this, visit the castle of Pyrgos to see how Santorini looks from one of the highest points. You can enjoy a pleasant meal there at Pyrgos Restaurant or Kantouni Restaurant. Make sure you don’t miss the sunset at Lighthouse of Akrotiri – it won’t be as crowded as Oia. You can end the day by having dinner at a fish tavern, like Dolphins Restaurant in Akrotiri.


Day 5:

On your last day in Santorini, consider visiting the Eros Beach. This private beach features a magnificent beach bar called Theros where you can drink, meet new people, or just party with your friends. Theros beach bar is built with stone and wood to complement the beautiful surroundings, allowing you to unwind on comfortable sofas and have fun on swings and hammocks while enjoying your meal or a refreshing cocktail.

After that, head over to Fira to watch the magical sunset and have dinner at a lavish restaurant nearby.




What can you do in Santorini in 7 days?

Follow the schedule for the 5-day trip and simply add more time on beaches and night-outs at Fira.

Now that you know all about the top things to do in Santorini depending on who you’re traveling with and how many days you will be spending on the island, plan a kickass vacation to ensure you have the best time of your life!
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