10 Best Things to do in Santorini, Greece [with Suggested Tours]

By: Fatima Turla

Are you planning to travel to Santorini, Greece soon?  Read our tips below on the things to do in Santorini with suggested tours!

Photo by Pedro Szekely CC BY-SA 2.0

The famous Santorini Island in Greece is located in the Aegean Sea. It was devastated by a volcanic eruption in the 16th century BC. The exceptional views that this island holds, the gorgeous cubiform white houses, and the rich history are just some of the reasons why it’s always a part of every traveler’s bucket list. When you go here, you can enjoy one of the best-tasting wine in Greece, visit archaeological sites, swim in its unique black sand beach, or just relax and admire everything you will see here. If you’re curious about what are the other things you can do in Santorini and other places to visit, we made this article as your future reference.

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Table of Contents

List of Best Things to do in Santorini, Greece

1. Hiking Trail Fira – Oia

Photo by Jorge Láscar CC BY 2.0

It is really a nice hike, coming halfway from Fira with some really nice views of the Caldera and Oia. When you go hiking, don’t forget to bring water and sun protection as there isn’t any shade. Wear comfortable clothes and footwear. This 3-hour hike would give you fantastic views, and an awesome experience. This is a must-try while in Santorini!

Suggested Tour: Santorini: Night Hike, Wine Tasting, and Greek Dinner

2. Amoudi Bay

Photo by Adam Witwer CC BY 2.0

When you come down from Oia via the stairs, you will have a great view of the Ammoudi Bay with the small fishing boats. It is a beautiful bay with clear water and many restaurants. Above it is the volcanic rock with beautiful white houses. A dip in the cool water is absolutely refreshing. Even if the bay is a bit crowded for swimming, it has its special charm. You can also have a wonderful view of Oia from here.

Suggested Tour: Santorini: Scuba Dive Experience

3. Museum of Prehistoric Thira

Photo by Kostas Limitsios CC BY 2.0

The museum is a must for anyone interested in ancient history. It is a small but clear museum. The exhibits are impressive and the descriptions are in Greek and English. It has the most interesting finds from the Minoan period. Not only that but you can also find findings from other regions of the same era and compare how the prehistoric styles developed. It’s recommended to go here before visiting the Akrotiri Archaeological Site.

Suggested Tour: Santorini: 5-Hour Private Panoramic Tour with Host

4. Akrotiri Archaeological Site

Photo by mightymightymatze CC BY-NC 2.0

The site is very well preserved that it is often referred to as the Pompeii of the Aegean. It is astonishing to see how well the almost 4000-year-old city is preserved and the high culture in which the inhabitants lived at that time. Great new refurbishment of the excavation site, which is unique in its kind and therefore extremely worth seeing.

Suggested Tour: Santorini: Akrotiri Prehistoric City Guided Walking Tour

5. Sunset in Oia

Photo by Juan Pablo Aparicio Vaquero CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

This small island is just beautiful and you should really visit it. The sunrise and sunset are unforgettable sights. It is considered one of the highlights during your visit to Santorini. However, expect the area to be crowded, but no worries as you can still probably find a spot to take great photos from.

Suggested Tour: Traditional Santorini Sightseeing Bus Tour with Oia Sunset

6. Ancient Thera

Photo by Paul Arps CC BY 2.0

The site is exceptional with a magnificent view, quite numerous explanatory panels, the agora with its columns, and the amphitheater on the hillside with magnificent views. This site in a peaceful setting offers breathtaking views of Kamari, Perissa, Profitis Elias, and the Aegean Sea. However, remember that access here is not so easy. You need to climb and the path is steep, wear comfortable clothes and shoes.

Suggested Tour: Santorini: Car Tour with a Local

7. Perissa Black Sand Beach

Photo by miriam.mollerus CC BY 2.0

Beautiful long beach consisting of black pebbles. The water is clear and clean and there are several restaurants. The black beach of Perissa is the best choice for beach holidaymakers on the island. The water and the sand can get very hot during the summer season though.

Suggested Tour: From Santorini: 5-Hour Guided Highlights Tour

8. Santorini Volcano

Photo by Steve Summers CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Santorini, its archipelago, and the volcano form a unique ensemble that should be seen at least once. The volcanic island itself is wonderfully situated, offers itself as a photo opportunity, and blends in well with this unique backdrop. The climb to the volcano, about 30 minutes, is a unique experience!

Suggested Tour: Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit

9. Santo Winery

Photo by Matthew Peoples CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Do wine tasting while you’re in Santorini! At Santo Winery, you will not only be able to have a taste with great wines but you can also see amazing views as it is situated in a fantastic location.

Suggested Tour: Santorini: Fira Town Walking Tour with Wine Tasting

10. Santorini Cable Car

Photo by Michael Gaylard CC BY 2.0

This is a good alternative to get to the port. The view over the harbor is absolutely gorgeous. But remember that long waiting times must be taken into account.

Where to stay in Santorini, Greece

Budget Hotel

Antonia Hotel

Offering an outdoor pool with sun loungers, Antonia Hotel is a typical Cycladic property located 80 m away from Fira main square, in Santorini. It features a balcony, all air-conditioned rooms equipped with a flat-screen TV, fridge, and kettle. The private bathrooms also come with a hairdryer. Santorini Airport is a 10-minute drive away.

Price: Starts at $37 per night for Standard Double or Twin Room, add $1 for taxes and charges, but it offers a free cancellation.

Luxury Hotel

Suites of the Gods Cave Spa Hotel

Featuring breathtaking views of the caldera, volcano, and Santorini, this luxurious boutique hotel offers exclusive spa facilities with complimentary à la carte breakfast, free internet access, and free parking. Each suite is individually decorated and tastefully designed for comfort and pleasure. Each suite is individually decorated and tastefully designed for comfort and pleasure. Afterward, guests can enjoy further relaxation in the sauna or in the Turkish steam bath.

Price: Starts at $169 per night for Suit-Spilt Level, add $4 for taxes and charges, including breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.

These are the possible things you can do in Santorini, Greece. So if you are ready to have a fun and exciting trip, you know what to do and where to go! So pack your things now and prepare yourself for a wonderful adventure in Santorini.

How to go to Santorini, Greece from London

Via Aegean Airlines: (one way with one-stop)

*From London Heathrow –  Athens Airport – Santorini

Ticket Price: £101.46

Via Ryanair: (one way with one-stop)

*From London Luton –  Athens Airport – Santorini

Ticket Price: £102.26

Via Easyjet: (one way with one-stop)

*From London Gatwick –  Athens Airport – Santorini

Ticket Price: £104.61

*Prices are subject to change. You can visit Skyscanner for more details about the ticket prices.

About the Writer

Hi there! I’m Fatima. My first major travel was in 2016 in the beautiful city of Cebu. After that, I got interested in traveling. Now I enjoy learning languages and other country’s cultures. My goal is to visit at least one country each year and to share my experiences with other people through writing or blogging. Witness my journey by following me on Instagram.

The original content (article & images) is owned by Fatima Turla. Visit the site here for other interesting stories.