Santorini is a popular tourist destination in Greece. It is a beautiful, rugged island in the Aegean sea, about 200km from mainland Greece. It is part of the Cyclades islands group and very popular for tourist island-hopping travels.
The main two cities on the island are Fira and Oia.
Santorini is famous for the idyllic towns with whitewashed buildings and blue accents. They are all along the cliffs of the island overlooking the sea. It is home to stunning sunsets and a very recognizable photo location – always popular with travelers.
It is a popular tourist place for the beaches, sunset views from the elevated terrain, and cruises along the turquoise waters. Not to mention, the food and drink, ancient sites, and traditional little villages.
Santorini Attractions
E-Bike Tours
You can use electric bikes to explore the region. Yes, the majestic island of Santorini is hilly. But with an electric bike to give you the power you need not worry.
The tours go for about 5 -6 hours including an hour of free time at the beach. You will cruise your bike around the southern part of the island, checking out small villages and the breathtaking coastline.
Sight Seeing – 6 Hour Private Tour
If you are wondering what to do in Santorini, a 6-hour private tour of the whole island is an excellent way to start.
Your group is privately guided around the island. Take in the ancient sites, stroll through villages and you’re taken to the best local places for food and wine. The tour concludes with a visit to the famous Red Beach then Perissa Black Sand Beach.
Since it is a private tour too, exact details can be adjusted to suit your needs and preferences.
Sunset Dinner Cruise Around Santorini Volcanic Islands
Watch the sunset in a relaxed style on a traditional Greek caique boat. This tour takes you on a cruise around the islands and on to visit a nearby volcano. Here, you can take a relaxing dip in the famous hot springs.
As the sun sets bursting with orange over the blue-green sea you can enjoy beautiful wine and a very satisfying dinner. This is one of the top things to do in Santorini. Especially, if you enjoy an afternoon of relaxed luxury with a touch of adventure.
Catamaran Tours
Another way to cruise the seas and take in the beauty of Santorini is on the Gold Catamaran Cruise with Lunch & Open Bar tour.
This tour offers comfortable transfers to and from your hotel and everything you need to enjoy the day out. The whole tour takes about 5 hours.
You set sail across Santorini’s famous caldera. The half-moon shaped bay of Santorini where an ancient volcano collapsed, on an impressive catamaran.
The first stop of the cruise is the famous Red Beach. Definitely one of the best things to do in Santorini by checking out this beach with the striking red sand. Here you can choose to relax by the sea or go snorkeling with the equipment supplied by the tour company.
The next stop is the volcano of Santorini with the famous hot springs. You will be captivated by the hot springs, volcano beaches, and many caves to explore here.
Then, the tour continues to Mesa Pigadia beach. A wonderful little beach, a little less visited than some of the others. It is here you get to enjoy a lush lunch and unlimited bar. Plus a dip in the pristine beach to cool off.
ATV Quad Bike
For a bit more action in your tour of the island, you can do the ATV Quad Bike Tour. You begin at Perissa (Black Beach) and the tour continues for a little over 3 hours – a short activity to add to your travel plans.
You ride the quad bike to the village of Emporio and the great Venetian castle in Akrotiri – an ancient site with a rich history. Both are popular tourist attractions and some of the best things to do in Santorini for a fascinating cultural and historic experience.
Along the way, you are taking in beautiful sights, taking breathtaking photos, and stop to have greek coffee, fresh juice, or even wine tasting at a few of the local spots.
The final stop is at the Heart of Santorini, a famous spot for taking gorgeous pictures looking out the rock formation opening, out to the caldera.
Village Tour with Photographer
You can even make your memories last with beautiful, professional photos as you tour around Santorini. This is one of the best things to do in Santorini for those travelers who can never get a good scenic photo – with themselves actually in it too.
Not only do you get a professional photographer to capture you and the incredible backdrops, but you also get a 4 -hour tour of the island that is customizable to include the places you most want to visit.
The tour includes 30 or more photos.
Social Media Shoot
If you are interested in getting some Instagram-worthy photos of your trip to Santorini but don’t want it as part of a tour – there is an option for you too.
There is a 1-hour Instagram photoshoot option with local photographers. You can relax with your travel group (up to four people included in the price) while the photographer makes the most of the gorgeous Santorini backdrop.
After the shoot, you get emailed 50 – 100 photographs from the day! You can then choose 25 – 30 that get edited to make them perfect for social media.
This is a cool way to capture your adventure, no matter if it is a romantic getaway or you want some professional shots to suit your socials page.
Photographer Safari
However, if it is you who is an avid photographer then the Santorini Photo Safari is a perfect choice. You get a 3-hour private tour, in your small group, to prominent and beautiful photo locations.
Stops include red beach, the lighthouse, Vlychada Beach, Castelli of Emporio, the traditional village of Megalochori, Monastery of Profitis Ilias, Skaros Rock, and the Main Street of Oia.
This tour is great for sightseeing but has also specifically been planned around photography opportunities – for professionals or amateurs alike.
Horse Riding Along the Beach
Another unique experience that Santorini has to offer is the horse riding trip from Vlychada to Eros Beach. The tour is approximately 1.5 hours.
Your tour guide will help lead the way and get you accustomed to riding your horse. Then you set off, taking in the scenery from atop of your horse. It is a very romantic and special way to explore the island – plus it is a short activity that fits easily with the rest of your day.
The horseback tour takes you from Caldera Beach to the Santorini mountains and along the black beach of Eros. Rest assured, there are opportunities to stop and take photos.
Interactive Museum
Spend a few hours marveling at Greek history and experience the fascinating myth of the lost city of Atlantis and its connection to Greek through an impressive 9D experience.
This museum in Santorini is the only one in the world dedicated to understanding the myth of Lost Atlantis.
Here is the official website of Lost Atlantis for more information.
Bus Tours
A popular affordable way to see the island and be free to roam at each stop is with the bus tour to Firostefani, Imerovigli, and Oia.
With the bus tours, you have a guide on the bus to give you the history and interesting information about the area. Then at each stop, you hop off the bus and can explore for yourself. You do not have a guide while you are exploring – which is a preference for some.
The tour starts in the afternoon to make sure you get to see the sunset at Oia and takes around 4 hours.
You begin the tour by stopping to take in the famous view Oia with the white building and iconic blue domes – a perfect photo opportunity.
From there you are driven to the quaint village of Firostefani. You can wander around the narrow streets and admire the interesting architecture and rich culture all around.
The next stop is Imerovigli where you can choose to hike up to Skaros rock and admire the views, or simply enjoy the village.
After those two villages, it is onto one of the main cities of Santorini, Oia. You can go up to the castle which is the best spot to take in the majestic sunset to end the tour.
Private Cooking Class
Many travelers come to Greece to experience the food.
There is no better way to absorb some of the local cultures than to take a private cooking class. Even better, you get to eat the delicious food you learned how to make.
The activity takes around 3 hours as your exclusive chef shows you the secrets to authentic Santorini cuisine. The package includes cooking a starter, main, and dessert – all with local fresh ingredients.
Capture the Mesmerizing Sunset View from Oia
The traditional village of Oia offers you a beautiful view of the sunset, something that will leave you spellbound. The place shows you a plethora of white walls, traditional churches, and not to mention, the horizon filled with red and orange hues. It is one of the must-visit spots in Santorini for all photography lovers and social media fans. Try to arrive early so you can find a perfect spot to watch and capture the sunset.
Hike to Oia
For all the adventure fans, a peaceful walk on Santorini’s hiking path will give you a breathtaking view and a seamless hiking experience. So, lace up your boots, get your camera ready, and start this mesmerizing hiking journey. Capture the pictures of the church, the cliff side villages, and other captivating spots.
Try a Boat Trip
Have a fun and relaxing boat trip in Santorini’s waters. If you have never tried boating inside the volcanoes, Greece is your best destination to give this a shot. As you sail around Caldera, you will see plenty of exciting views and Greece landmarks. Bring your cameras and click some shots from the deck. The boat will take a few stops at sandy and pristine beaches. You can relax here and go swimming if you are a water baby.
Go Kayaking
Another water sport to try in the Santorini river is kayaking. You can rent a kayak and paddle along the pristine coastline. The perfect place for those interested in Kayaking is red beach. It also happens to be one of the photogenic places in Santorini, giving you a wonderful view of the ethereal sea caves and the isolated beaches.
Discover Some Unknown Myths at the Lost Atlantis
Any history fan will love to discover more about the lost city of Atlantis. And, what could be a better place to discover this history than this museum that has a collection of facts and unknown myths about Atlantis?
A visit to this museum will take you through the history of the city and how it was destroyed. It also has 3D holograms and exciting exhibitions. The Lost Atlantis Experience is your go-to place to discover myths and facts about the lost city of Atlantis.
Take a Photo Tour
Your trip to Santorini, Greece is incomplete without a photo tour. That’s what most people visit Greece for. The country has iconic views and picturesque spots that will give you the perfect shots. You can take a customizable private photo tour where a photographer will click your random shots while you explore the city to its fullest.
No need to worry about carrying your cameras everywhere and struggling for the one perfect picture. Try a customized photo tour in Santorini and get the best shots.
Participate in Jet Skiing
Jet skiing is another exciting water activity for all the adventure junkies out there. Go solo or enjoy this ride with your friends. Explore the marine life of Santorini in the blue waters while observing the high-rise buildings in the area. Once you are done with the ride, lay on the beach and relax for a while.
Try Titanic Pose
Santorini is famous for its sunsets and waters. It is a perfect location for titanic fans who have always wanted to give the famous titanic pose a shot. Sail past Greece’s most beautiful landmarks and have a relaxing and romantic evening on the deck. Do not forget to click the Titanic pose pictures during sunset.
Head to the Pyrgos Village
Have you visited all the scenic locations in Santorini? Well, the city has countless panoramic spots that will take you weeks and months to explore fully. One such small and picturesque location that will take your breath away is the Pyrgos Village. This small place will give you insights into Greece’s culture. It also has a few traditional restaurants where you can try your favorite delicacies.
Book a Helicopter Tour
For a bird’s eye view of the city, you need to book a helicopter that can give you a tour of the city from a good height. The tiny villages, plenty of islands, and deep blue waters look beyond amazing.
Try Horse Riding on Eros Beach
Horse riding is one of the most thrilling activities to try in Santorini. Surfing along Eros Beach is the best thing you can do in this city. You don’t have to be an expert in horse riding to try this fun activity. Get on the horse and enjoy the panoramic view of the beach.
Enjoy Quad Biking Adventure
If you want an escape from the coastal crowd, a quad biking tour is the best way to explore the remote valleys, undiscovered trails, and some secret spots of Santorini. The off-road ride is super thrilling, plus you can take as many stops as you want. Quad biking adventure is also a perfect way to meet locals in the town and learn more about Greek culture.
Savor the Traditional Food
The creamy fava, meze platters, and Greek popular coffee are a few things to try at the traditional restaurants here. You can also discover more about the country’s Mediterranean culture through its delicious cuisines. Order Greek coffee and try it with the donuts – You will love the combo.
Ride a Cable Car
If you have been to hill stations, you must have seen the cable car rides. For all the height lovers, the cable cars running between Gialos and Fira will give you a remarkable experience. The ride starts from a cliff and descends to the deep blue waters, giving you plenty of opportunities to explore the surroundings and click lovely shots.
Watch Movies in Traditional Style
If socializing is your thing, this outdoor cinema setting in the Kamari village is your perfect destination to spend a lovely evening in Santorini. It is an open-air theater where you could watch both English and Greek movies. Bring your popcorns and take your seat. The outdoor cinemas give a retro feel. Spend the weekend’s evening in Kamari and enjoy the movie under the starry night sky.
Get a Tour of the City on an Electric Bike
Pedal your way through the Caldera’s plain trails and enjoy the view as you ride past some of the most iconic locations of the town on an electric bike. Touring the city on a bike is the best way to explore every nook and cranny of the place.
Visit Megalochori
For those who want to explore the culture and history of Santorini, Megalochori is your best destination. The steep trails combined with the iconic mansions and some historical cave houses will take your experience to a whole new level. Savor your favorite ice cream and click the photos of the blue-domed churches to have something that you can show to people back home.
Explore the Ruins of Thera
Located between the two pristine beaches of the city, Thera greets visitors with some ancient ruins and enticing history that any history fan will love to explore. In addition to the history, the ancient Thera has a plethora of fascinating island views in store for all its visitors. The place has become one of the best archaeological sites, and of course, a tourist destination.
Go on a Fishing Trip
Santorini is the city for water lovers. If you are a water baby, you should definitely give fishing a shot. For those who have always wanted to try fishing, Santorini is your go-to place to participate in fishing and other exciting water activities. Get on the wooden vessel and try fishing under an expert’s guidance. See if you catch an octopus or a shrimp for lunch.
Tour Greek Traditional Restaurants
For once, avoid the tourist restaurants that serve American and International cuisines, and indulge in a more traditional experience. Greek has plenty of traditional restaurants that serve Greek food and some traditional dishes that are not cooked in your native cities. The homemade aubergine salads are super tasty and so are the fava bean dips. Visit Ouzeri restaurant and savor moussaka while enjoying the stunning view outside.
Visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thira
Greece is all about culture, history, food, and some pristine beaches. The Museum of Prehistoric Thira is one such historical place that has ancient artifacts collected from Thira and other historic cities. Take a look around the exhibition halls to see some of the beautiful artifacts that have stood the test of time.
A Visit to Fira
The capital city has got plenty of picturesque views and exciting locations for tourists. The steep paths and some secret stairways are hidden in the giant white walls. A perfect location for couples looking for a romantic getaway destination from Santorini. It gives you lovely vibes and a pleasant atmosphere in the city never disappoints.
Learn about Ancient Greek at the Atlantis Bookshop
Away from the city’s hustle, this quiet bookshop in Santorini is your best spot for a nice evening. Learn about Greek mythology and discover the history of the country here. The atmosphere is excellent and the area around the bookshop is filled with serene views. Enter the vintage world with the best Greek book collection at the Atlantis Bookshop.
Enjoy a Romantic Evening with the Best View
Santorini never disappoints when it comes to the location with views. A perfect evening in the city means a romantic dinner date with your partner in a calm place, with Greek dishes, and a mesmerizing view of Caldera. The Astarte Restaurant has a poolside where you can sit with your partner and enjoy a romantic dinner date.
Visit Perissa Beach
Every beach in Santorini has something new and unique for its tourists. Perissa Beach is no different. In addition to the tranquil atmosphere, the beach is filled with black warm sand and crystal clear water. The beach is located close to the Ancient Thira and is a perfect spot for swimmers. Take a stroll along the waters on the black sand and enjoy a relaxing nap.
Click Photos in the Heart-shaped Rock
It is one of the most picturesque locations for photographers. Located on the caldera rim, a naturally heart-shaped structure made of rocks looks incredibly stunning. And, a photograph here is a must for all the tourists who want some nice photos for their social accounts. The location is near Megalochori and is an excellent spot for couples.
Watch the Wonderful View at Imerovigli
Located in the north of the town, the small village of Imerovigli is another charming place for tourists. You will find tranquil chapels and some blue-domed churches. Click a few photos of these white-washed buildings and take a peaceful stroll around the town to explore Greek’s diversified culture.
Swim to St. Nicholas Church
Located in the middle of the waters, the St. Nicholas Church is one of the major attractions of Santorini. You need to travel to the northern tip of the town and swim to this church. You could also get a boat, but if you are an adventure junkie, you will love to explore the waters on the way. Snorkeling gear is highly recommended, as you will love to explore the surface beneath water.
A Trip to the Old Tomato Factory
If you are looking for something unique and incredible, a visit to the tomato factory is what you need to make your trip to Santorini the most memorable one. The area was famous for producing large volumes of tomatoes for the economy earlier. Today, it has become a museum where you can learn the history of the field and some exciting stories about Santorini’s rich volcanic soils.
Try Vegan Food
Santorini is home to many vegan restaurants. Katharos Lounge is one such place that serves vegan food to all the diners on its terrace. They have delicious strawberry salad and baked feta with a mesmerizing view of the town. It is located outside Oio. Enjoy a delicious vegan meal while watching the sunset from the terrace. A perfect evening and the best dining experience!
