Things to do in Santorini (2026): Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
If you have landed on this page you have probably already decided on Santorini as your next destination, so I won't bother telling you if it's worth it or not (spoiler alert, it is), but I have been to Santorini 5 times now and I really feel I finally know how to get the best out of this rather misunderstood island.
I've now visited Santorini five times over several years, staying in different parts of the island including Pyrgos. Rather than simply ticking off the famous viewpoints, I've explored quieter villages, driven the island from north to south, stayed in both luxury and boutique hotels, tried countless restaurants and returned again and again to discover places most first-time visitors never see.
First things first, whilst Oia graces the front of travel brochures and postcards around the world, it's not the only place to visit in Santorini. There is so much MORE. There is hiking, beaches, amazing tavernas, tiny hilltop villages, and of course those famous sunsets.
Whether you are visiting for three days or a week, this guide will help you decide exactly what to do in Santorini, and how to have a brilliant trip to this gorgeous Greek island.
Planning your trip to Santorini?
I've written a number of detailed guides to help you plan your trip. You might also find these useful:
☀️ Is Santorini worth it or is it overrated?
Quick planning guide
Need to know | Answer |
|---|---|
Time needed | 3–5 days |
Best months | Late May, June, early September |
Need a car? | Yes (taxis are expensive!) |
Best villages | Oia / Imerovigli / Fira / Pyrgos |
Worth hiking? | Absolutely |
Best beach | A cliche, but Red Beach is my favourite |
Best Things to Do in Santorini
Explore Oia
I'm going to start with the main attraction... Oia. A beautiful whitewashed village almost too perfectly perched about the caldera. It's famous for its blue domed churches, houses that seem to tumble down the cliff face, and the most iconic sunsets in Europe.
Things to do in Oia:
- Blue domes - Make sure you get up early to get the famous photo infront of the blue domes. Come 8am there is a big queue forming for this picture, it really is that beautiful. If you are visiting 11am-sunset then you can wait for almost an hour to get this photo.
- Marble streets - Oia is pedestrianised making it so easy to explore. It's shiny marble streets wind through boutique shops, tavernas, sunset bars and luxury hotels.
- Sunset - The best place to watch the sunset is from Oia Castle but you need to head up there just before golden hour if you want a good spot. alternatively you can watch it from the streets but it gets VERY busy. I love booking a caldera view hotel so you can watch the sunset in private.
- Boutiques - There are some gorgeous boutique shops in Oia, they're a little more pricey than in fira, but the quality is excellent and usually greek owned/made/designed.
Lunch or dinner in Ammoudi Bay
Amoudi Bay is a small port at the bottom of the cliffs of Oia. Once a tiny fishing port, it is now a popular spot for boat trips. as the buildings now contain excellent seafood tavernas.
Key Highlights
- Fresh Seafood: Amoudi Fish Tavern is especially popular, but for any restaurant I recommend booking ahead. We dined at 3pm for a late lunch which meant we could get a last minute booking, but a sunset dinner here is extremely special (book that a few weeks ahead if you are travelling in high season).
- Swimming and Cliff Jumping: A scenic, 5-minute walk past the restaurants leads to a rocky swimming area. From there, you can swim to the small island of St. Nicholas and jump off the rocky ledges into the deep blue sea.
- Boat and Sunset Tours: Amoudi is the main staging point for caldera boat tours, catamarans, and sunset cruises exploring the volcano and nearby hot springs.
- Sunset Views: It is an incredible (and slightly less crowded) spot to watch the famous Santorini sunset.
- Fresh Seafood: Amoudi Fish Tavern is especially popular, but for any restaurant I recommend booking ahead. We dined at 3pm for a late lunch which meant we could get a last minute booking, but a sunset dinner here is extremely special (book that a few weeks ahead if you are travelling in high season).
Explore Fira
- Caldera walk: The Fira to Oia Caldera Trail is the most iconic walking route in Santorini. Spanning roughly 10.5 kilometres (6.5 miles) along the edge of the volcanic cliffside, it connects the capital of Fira to the northern town of Oia. It takes between 2.5 to 5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take photographs. Alternatively, you can do shorter walks to villages like Imerovigli.
- Museums: The two main archeological museums in Fira are the Museum of Prehistoric Thera and the Archaeological Museum of Thera, both located right in the centre of town within walking distance of each other.
- Restaurants: Fira offers brilliant caldera view dining. Some of the best restaurants in fira with a sunset view includes Veranda Restaurant (my absolute favourite) and Niki Restaurant which is an upscale restaurant with a fantastic wine list!
- Shopping: I adore the shopping in Fira! It is much cheaper than in Oia and whilst the quality might be a little less, the price even more so. There are lots of boutique where you can buy beautiful Grecian clothes, sandals, handbags and jewellery.
- Volkan Outdoor Cinema: This is one of my favourite things to do in Santorini! The Volkan Cinema offers screenings of Mamma Mia in the summer months, complete with table service for food and drink. Located at the noth of Fira, Volkan Cinema offers gorgeous sunset views. I booked the dinner & movie package which was €55 (£47) per person, it is €25 (£21) per person for the movie only - a little steep but definitely worth it.
Visit Pyrgos
Pyrgos is one of my favourite villages in Santorini and conveniently located in the centre of the island. I have actually stayed here twice but it is just as easy to visit for the day.
There is a regular bus service to the village, and there is also parking if you wish to drive.
Most people visit around lunchtime so this is when it gets a little busy, but I much prefer it for dinner as it has some great tavernas, the village is quiet, and the sunset views from the top are incredible!
There are small shops dotted in the winding alleyways where you can buy postcards, souvenirs, ceramics and jewellery. Franco's is a popular sunset spot with uninterrupted views out to sea, you can enjoy dinner here (it is more of a snack menu), or sundowner cocktails.
Visit Emporio
Much less visited even than Pyrgos, Emporio is criminally overlooked. It is on the road from Pyrgos to Perissa and most people bypass it to go straight to the beach.
I first visited Emporio in 2020 when there were barely any other tourists on the island, and this year I returned expecting it to be much busier.. but nope! It is still just as quiet now as it was back then.
Whilst emporio offers a few shops, cafes and restaurants on its outskirts, its historic centre that leads up to Emporio Castle barely sees anyone come and visist.
There is a small taverna called 'To Kafenedaki Tou Emporiou' as you enter the town's maze and I recommend stopping here for a freshly made lemonade.
There is a lovely taverna called 'The Old Barber Shop' which serves up a delicious brunch or lunch, it has a beautiful rooftop terrace with views over the the sea.
There isn't too much else to do in the town but it is worth visiting and having a slow wander.
Santorini wine tasting
Santorini is famous for its unique volcanic terroir and indigenous grape varieties like Assyrtiko. I recommend booking a multi winery tour such as this 3 Winery Tour with Oia sunset or this very special Sunset Tour with Dinner.
Watch sunset
Oia is the most famous sunset spot in Santorini but there are plenty of other places to to see it!
As mentioned above, head to Pyrgos for sunset, or go to the south of the island to Akrotiri Lighthouse.
Meanwhile, the clifftops of Imerovigli are beautiful at golden hour, very similar to Oia, but without all the people. Fira is one of my favourite sunset spots, it's busy but not Oia busy, you don't feel like people are fighting to get a spot, instead it's mostly people finding rooftop bars and restaurants.
For the adventurous, a short 20-minute hike out to Skaros Rock puts you on a dramatic volcanic promontory facing the whole caldera
Catamaran Cruise
I really recommend taking. catamaran cruise around Santorini, the island is SO beautiful and even more so appreciated from the sea.
A boat triptgets you away from the intense cliffside crowds, usually includes freshly cooked food, and offers an unmatched view of the sunset directly from the water. Tours anchor inside the volcanic caldera so you can swim in the natural hot springs and snorkel in clear coves.
I took the Half Day Premium Catamaran Cruise with Santorini Star and loved every second of it. It took us to some of the best spots on the island and there was a good amount of swimming time which was perfect because the August heat was a lot!
Relax on the beaches
I never realised how great the beaches were in Santorini until recently. I always thought of the island as a romantic, luxury hotel sort of escape and a few weeks ago I decided to get in the car and visit the beaches (Red Beach, Kamari and Perissa). All I can say is wow! I have been missing out. Turns out Santorini is also a brilliant destination for families and those looking to lay back and relax.
Best beaches in santorini
- Red Beach: A classic, and my favourite. There is a small hike down or you can visit by boat.
- White Beach: despite it's name, White Beach doesn't offer white sand, this is a volcanic beach too! Perfect for nature enthusiasts and those wanting to get away from everything, White Beach is one of the quietest beaches in Santorini.
- Perissa: Great if you are looking for a more resort based holiday. Perissa Beach is a black sand beach with a handful of watersports available, a nice breeze, and there are plenty of places to grab lunch when you need a break from the sun.
- Kamari: Close to the airport, Kamari is a popular family destination with small hotels, tavernas, restaurants and shopping. There is a bit more 'life' here than Perissa Beach but has a less elevated feel. That said, I loved it! It's another great one for families.
- Vlychada: Vlychada Beach offers an almost luna type landscape. It is so peaceful, located on the south coast, with a long stretch of volcanic sand mixed with pebbles. the water is insanely clear but it does get deep quickly, so stay safe. It is much quieter than Perissa and Kamari, with little development other than some umbrellas and sun loungers for hire in summer.
Practical tips & mistakes to avoid
- Don't go to Oia at peak times: Yes the sunset there is beautiful and is worth visiting atleast once on your trip, but aside from this, explore early in the morning or go for dinner after the sunset and enjoy the shops once everyone has left.
- Check the cruise schedules: It is the cruise ships that cause congestion in Santorini. Some days have multiple ships, other days just one. Explore the main places like Fira and Oia on days there aren't many ships in. You can check the cruise schedule here.
- Do not ride any donkeys: There are various places around Santorini that offer donkey rides. Most notably the cliff walk down/up from Oia to Amoudi Bay. The weather is far too hot for the donkeys and the climb is steep, it is cruel and hopefully soon this tradition will stop completely.
- Don't forget to go off the beaten track: Oia, Fira and Imerovigli are the most visited places in Santorini, to make the most of your trip you really need to go beyond these places.
- Plan ahead: Check out restaurants and tours before you travel. Things get booked up, especially restaurants with sunset views, wineries and sunset tours. I recommend booking a few weeks ahead.
- Hire a car or ATV: The best way to explore the island is going at your own pace. Hire a car or an ATV and get to know all corners of the island.
- Don't drink the tap water: Always opt for bottled water, which is widely available and inexpensive.
- Don’t Stand on Churches:It can be tempting for a photo, but churches are sacred and this is banned by law on the island.
Suggested 3 day Santorini itinerary:
Day 1
Explore Fira in the afternoon and evening. Most flights get in a little later, this gies you time to settle into your accommodation before going out.
Book a caldera view restaurant and enjoy dinner with sunset, you won't regret it. Or head to a cocktail bar (my favourite is PK Cocktail Bar) for sunset and enjoy dinner after. Catch the Mamma Mia viewing at the outdoor Volkan Cinema.
Day 2
Sleep in and have a leisurely breakfast before heading to the beach. I recommend Red Beach for good swimming. Take a towel and lay on the sand, or hire a sunbed and umbrella further up the beach.
Lunch at Asterias Taverna, it is a short walk from Red Beach and right on the water.
Go back to your accommodation and relax, freshen up, and head out to Pyrgos around 6pm. Explore the tiny streets of Pyrgos before having dinner followed by cocktails at Franco's for sunset.
Day 3
Wake up and experience sunrise in Oia, a much more peaceful alternative to sunset. Walk along the marble streets, capturing photos along the way. Take your time, there's no rush. Cafes start opening after 9am, where you can grab a coffee and enjoy amazing sea views.
Go wine tasting at some of Santorini's best wineries. I recommend this tour which includes three of the best. The tour ends in Oia just before sunset. Instead of watching sunset in Oia, make your way down to Amoudi Bay and have dinner on the water as the golden sun dips below the horizon (remember to pre-book!).
Frequently asked questions:
1. What not to miss in Santorini?
You can't miss Oia but you can miss the sunset in Oia - it's not the be all or end all. I recommend visiting in the early morning and experiencing sunrise instead.
2. Is 3 days too much in Santorini?
No, 3 days isn't too much in Santorini. In fact, 3 days is a good amount of time to experience the islands highlights, whilst 5 days is great if you want to enjoy boat trips and more beaches. Stay for a week if you want a more relaxing stay alongside sightseeing.
3. What to be careful of in Santorini?
There are a few things to be careful of in Santorini - firstly, it gets very hot in summer and sunstroke can be a problem. Make sure you cover up and wear sunscreen during the hottest parts of the day.
Be careful when hiking or driving (especially if you are driving an ATV), there have been a few unfortunate tourist accidents.
Don't drink the tap water, it's not good for you and doesn't taste very nice.
4. Is Santorini overrated?
No, Santorini isn't overrated. This is a common misconception by those visiting popular places at the busiest times of the day and wondering why they are not so enjoyable. You can visit all the beautiful places in a more savvy way, although you are restricted if you are visiting by cruise ship.
5. When is the best month to visit Santorini?
June is the best time to visit Santorini. It is warm and sunny, the sea is warming up so it's great for swimming. There are less tourists, prices are slightly cheaper than in July and August. Everything is open and the island is fully alive.
6. Is Santorini expensive?
Yes, Santorini is one of the more expensive Greek islands. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly options when there, and plenty of things to enjoy for free. I found the taxis particularly expensive and it was much more cost effective to hire a car for a few days instead.
You will pay a premium for hotels with a caldera or sunset view.
7. What is the best place to visit in Santorini?
Oia is undeniably beautiful, but make sure you go inland and visit Pyrgos and Emporio too for a more authentic, less busy experience.
8. What are the best free things to do in Santorini?
There is so much to do for free in Santorini. The beaches are all free to visit, take a towel and park up on the sand. Umbrellas and sunbeds are available at a cost, we just stayed on the sand.
The hiking trails are also free and super rewarding. Walking around the towns and villages are very enjoyable, and free!
9. What are things to do in Santorini with kids?
Santorini is great for families and there are so many kid-friendly spots. The beaches are fun for children, especially Kamari and Perissa as they are accessible without a hike. Explore the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, take a boat tour to the volcano and hot springs, and lastly make sure you visit the first museum in the world dedicated to the myth of Lost Atlantis!
