Things to do in Santorini: A Complete Guide

If you’re thinking about visiting the stunning Mediterranean island of Santorini, you’re in for a treat. With its azure waters and white-washed buildings, this iconic Greek island has plenty to offer, from incredible beaches to historic sites. From romantic walks along the caldera to exploring the unique culture of Santorini, there’s something for everyone here. This guide will give you all the information you need to make the most of your trip to Santorini.

Explore the Caldera

The Caldera of Santorini is one of the most iconic sights on the island, and is well worth exploring. This volcanic crater was formed thousands of years ago when the centre of the island collapsed due to a volcanic eruption. You can explore the rim of the caldera by boat, which is the best way to appreciate its sheer size and beauty. For a more active approach, you can hike around the rim, taking in the stunning views of the island.

The caldera is also home to some of the most stunning beaches in the Cyclades, such as Red Beach and White Beach. These beaches are accessible only by boat, making them an ideal spot for a romantic picnic or a family day out.

Exploring the caldera is one of the best things to do in Santorini, and will give you a unique insight into the island’s past.

Go Island-Hopping

Santorini is an ideal base for exploring the other islands of the Cyclades. From here, you can hop on a ferry to explore the rest of the archipelago. The neighbouring islands of Mykonos and Paros are both popular spots for day trips, and offer a chance to experience the unique culture and cuisine of the region.

Alternatively, you can explore the more remote islands of the Cyclades. Naxos is one of the most popular spots, with its ancient sites and stunning beaches. For something really off the beaten track, head to the tiny island of Antiparos. This unspoilt island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and coves in the region.

Island-hopping is a great way to explore the Cyclades, and will give you a chance to really immerse yourself in the culture of the region.

Visit the Ancient Sites

Santorini is home to some of the best preserved ancient sites in the Cyclades. Akrotiri is a must-visit spot, with its ruins dating back to the Bronze Age. This site is a reminder of the remarkable history of the region, and is a great spot to explore with the whole family.

The archaeological site of Ancient Thera is another popular spot, with its ruins dating back to the 5th century BC. This ancient city was once the centre of power in the region, and you can explore the ruins of the temples, palaces and houses which once stood here.

Exploring Santorini’s ancient sites is a great way to really get a feel for the history of the region, and a must-do for any history buffs.

Sip Local Wines

Santorini is home to some of the best wineries in the Mediterranean, and wine-tasting is a popular activity here. You can visit a winery to sample the local wines, and learn about the unique terroir of the region. Many wineries also offer guided tours and tastings, allowing you to really get to grips with the local wines.

Vineyard-hopping is another great way to explore the unique wines of Santorini. You can hire a car and explore the local vineyards, stopping to sample the wines at each one. This is a great way to experience the incredible terroir of the island.

Exploring the local wines of Santorini is a great way to get to know the island, and a must-do for any wine-lovers.

Explore the Culture and Cuisine

Santorini is home to a unique culture and cuisine, and exploring this is one of the best things to do on the island. The local cuisine is a mix of Greek and Mediterranean dishes, with influences from the local vineyards and seafood. Try some traditional dishes such as moussaka or stifado, or sample some local seafood dishes such as grilled octopus or grilled sardines.

The culture of Santorini is also unique, and exploring this is a great way to get to know the island. Visit the local markets to browse the stalls selling local crafts and souvenirs. Or take a stroll around the cobbled streets of the villages, taking in the colourful buildings and traditional architecture.

Exploring the culture and cuisine of Santorini is a great way to get to know the island, and a must-do for any foodies.

Take a Boat Trip

Boat trips are one of the best ways to explore the beauty of Santorini, and there are plenty of options to choose from. You can take a boat trip around the caldera, admiring the stunning views of the cliffs and the nearby islands. Or you can explore the smaller coves and caves of the island, which are only accessible by boat.

Alternatively, you can take a boat trip to explore the neighbouring islands of the Cyclades. This is a great way to explore the culture and cuisine of the region, and a great way to get a feel for the local culture.

A boat trip is a great way to explore the beauty of Santorini, and a must-do for any visitors to the island.

Visit the Boutiques and Markets

Santorini is home to some great boutiques and markets, and exploring these is a great way to get to know the local culture. The markets in Fira are a great place to pick up souvenirs and local crafts, while the boutiques of Oia are a great spot to pick up some unique clothing and jewellery.

For those looking for a more authentic experience, head to the local villages for some traditional Greek cuisine and local crafts. The markets in Imerovigli are a great spot to pick up some local produce, while the markets in Pyrgos are a great spot to pick up some traditional handicrafts.

Exploring the boutiques and markets of Santorini is a great way to get to know the local culture, and a must-do for any visitors to the island.

Visit the Hot Springs

Santorini is home to some natural hot springs, which are a great spot for a relaxing soak. The hot springs of Palia Kameni are the most popular spot, and you can take a boat trip to this small island to enjoy the therapeutic waters.

The hot springs of Perissa are another great spot, and are home to some stunning black sand beaches. Here, you can relax in the warm waters of the springs and take in the stunning views of the caldera.

Visiting the hot springs of Santorini is a great way to relax and unwind, and a must-do for any visitors to the island.

Take a Cooking Class

Learning to cook some of the local dishes is a great way to experience the culture of Santorini, and there are plenty of cooking classes to choose from. You can take a class in traditional Greek cuisine, learning how to make classic dishes such as moussaka or spanakopita. Or you could learn how to make some of the local seafood dishes, such as grilled octopus or grilled sardines.

Many cooking classes also offer the chance to explore the local markets and vineyards, giving you a unique insight into the culture and cuisine of the region.

A cooking class is a great way to experience the culture and cuisine of Santorini, and a must-do for any foodies.

Take a Yoga Class

Yoga is becoming increasingly popular in Santorini, and there are plenty of classes to choose from. You can take a class in traditional Hatha yoga, or try something more adventurous such as aerial yoga or acro-yoga. There are also plenty of outdoor classes, allowing you to take in the stunning views of the island while you practice.

Yoga is a great way to relax and unwind, and is a great way to really appreciate the beauty of Santorini.

Explore the Beaches

Santorini is home to some stunning beaches, from the iconic Red Beach to the secluded White Beach. These beaches are perfect for a romantic stroll or a family day out, and you can explore the unique rock formations of the island.

The beaches of Perissa are also a great spot, with their stunning black sand and crystal clear waters. Here, you can relax on the beach or try your hand at some water sports.

Exploring the beaches of Santorini is a great way to experience the beauty of the island, and a must-do for any visitors to the island.

Take a Hike

Hiking is one of the best ways to explore the beauty of Santorini, and there are plenty of trails to choose from. You can explore the caldera, taking in the stunning views of the cliffs and nearby islands. Or you can explore the nearby villages, taking in the traditional architecture and cobbled streets.

For something more adventurous, you can take a hike to the peak of Mount Profitis Ilias. This is the highest point on the island, and offers stunning views of the caldera and the neighbouring islands.

Hiking is a great way to explore the beauty of Santorini, and a must-do for any visitors to the island.

Conclusion

Santorini is a stunning Mediterranean island, with plenty to offer for visitors. From exploring the caldera and island-hopping to sipping local wines and visiting the ancient sites, there is something for everyone here. Exploring the unique culture and cuisine of Santorini is also a must-do, as is taking a boat trip to explore the beauty of the island. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family holiday, Santorini has plenty to offer. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Santorini today!