Best things to do in Santorini
Find out more about those top places in Santorini
Santorini: Beyond the Blue Domes (and the Selfie Sticks!) - Discover the Island's Secret Charms (and Maybe a Quiet Sunset!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide!
Ah, Santorini! Just the name conjures up images of those iconic blue-domed churches perched like sapphire drops on whitewashed houses, all clinging to the rim of a spectacular sea-filled caldera. Seriously, it's a view that could make even the most cynical traveler go "Ooh la la!" And let's be honest, it's a place that screams "romantic getaway" louder than a thousand serenading gondoliers.
However (and this is where the "hilariously honest" part kicks in!), Santorini's main towns – Fira and Oia – have, in recent years, been feeling the squeeze. Imagine trying to navigate a crowded beach during peak season, but instead of beachgoers, it's a delightful (but dense!) mix of honeymooners gazing lovingly into each other's eyes, cruise boats unleashing their happy hordes, social media influencers striking that perfect pose (for the tenth time), and luxury hotel chains vying for the best caldera views. It's beautiful, yes, but sometimes you might feel like you need a paddle to navigate the crowds!
But fear not, intrepid explorer! Like a perfectly chilled bottle of local Assyrtiko wine, Santorini still retains a clutch of hidden gems, tucked away from the main tourist throngs. The charming villages of Imerovigli and Pyrgos boast just as much Cycladic charm as their more famous neighbors across the caldera, with those iconic whitewashed houses and breathtaking views, but they receive far fewer visitors. This means you might actually get a quiet moment to soak it all in and perhaps even chat with a local without having to shout over a sea of clicking cameras. They've managed to hold onto that rustic Greek charm like it's a precious family heirloom.
What's more, this volcanic island isn't just about stunning scenery. Santorini is also famed for its unique wineries, which dot the island's volcanic hillsides like little oases of deliciousness. Imagine sipping a crisp local wine while overlooking the caldera – talk about a taste with a view! And let's not forget the surprisingly unspoiled black-sand beaches. Yes, black sand! It's dramatic, it's different, and it offers a fantastic alternative to the usual golden stretches. You might even find a spot where you can actually hear the waves crashing without the soundtrack of a hundred conversations.
Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most delightful things to do on this captivating island. Get ready for some unforgettable sightseeing, from the iconic caldera views to the hidden charm of lesser-known villages, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Santorini a truly special destination, even beyond the blue domes and the Instagram feeds.
Top Attractions: Beyond the Crowds, Discover Santorini's Hidden Treasures!
While Fira and Oia are must-sees, venture a little further to discover Santorini's quieter charms:
Imerovigli: The "Balcony to the Aegean" with Tranquil Views
Often referred to as the "balcony to the Aegean," Imerovigli offers equally stunning caldera views as Oia but with a more relaxed and less crowded atmosphere. Hike to the Skaros Rock for incredible panoramas and enjoy the peace and quiet. It's a top place to visit for breathtaking sightseeing without the hustle.
Pyrgos: A Traditional Village with Authentic Charm
Explore the charming village of Pyrgos, the former capital of Santorini. Wander through its narrow, winding streets, discover its Venetian castle ruins, and soak in the authentic Greek atmosphere. It's a fantastic place to visit for a taste of traditional Santorini away from the main tourist trail.
Santorini's Wineries: Sip Local Wines with Volcanic Views
Embark on a wine-tasting tour of Santorini's unique wineries. Learn about the island's volcanic terroir and sample its distinctive Assyrtiko, Vinsanto, and other local varieties. It's a delicious thing to do with stunning sightseeing opportunities.
Santorini's Black Sand Beaches: Dramatic Shores and Crystal-Clear Waters
Discover the dramatic beauty of Santorini's black sand beaches, such as Perissa, Perivolos, and Kamari. Enjoy swimming in the clear Aegean waters, sunbathing on the unique volcanic sand, and indulging in fresh seafood at the beachfront tavernas. It's a fantastic alternative to the caldera crowds and a great way to spend a sunny day.
Things to Do Beyond the Iconic Views: Hiking, History, and Island Flavors!
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Santorini vibe:
- Hike the Caldera Trail: For stunning views and a good workout, hike the scenic trail between Fira and Oia (or a portion of it). The views are incredible, and you'll discover hidden viewpoints along the way.
- Explore the Akrotiri Archaeological Site: Step back in time at this fascinating Minoan city that was preserved by a volcanic eruption, often compared to Pompeii.
- Visit the Santorini Arts Factory: Discover contemporary art and cultural events at this former tomato processing factory in Vlychada.
- Take a Sunset Cruise: While Oia sunsets are famous (and crowded!), consider a sunset cruise around the caldera for a different perspective and a more relaxed experience.
- Indulge in Local Cuisine: Sample the fresh and flavorful Santorinian cuisine, including fava (yellow split pea puree), white eggplant, and tomato keftedes (tomato fritters).
So, if you're looking for places to visit in Greece that offer iconic beauty with a chance to escape the biggest crowds, Santorini is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an adventure filled with breathtaking sightseeing and delightful things to do, both on the well-trodden paths and the island's hidden gems. Just be prepared to fall in love with the blue domes, the volcanic landscapes, and the surprisingly tranquil corners of this Aegean paradise. Kali Spera! (Good evening!)
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Akrotiri Excavations
Unearthed in 1967 after spending millennia buried under thick layers of volcanic ash, the ancient Minoan city of Akrotiri is one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites. Today, the ruins are once again covered but this time by a hi-tech protective structure that allows visitors pass through the ancient city on boardwalks where you can see ancient pottery, three story town houses and complex drainage systems. For the best experience, tour guides are available to offer unique insights into the daily lives of the 200 families that once called Akrotiri home.
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Santorini Caldera
Perfect for a romantic sunset cruise boat tour, the Santorini Caldera is one of Europe’s most spectacular geological formations. Offering breathtaking views of the islands of Santorini, Therasia and Aspronisi, cruising the Caldera is an unforgettable experience that also lets you get up close to plunging cliffs and remote black sand beaches, both of which were formed as a result of various volcanic eruptions over the last 100 000 years.
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Oia sunset
With whitewashed houses nestling amongst volcanic crags and cobbled lanes winding up solidified lava flows, it would be hard to find a more picturesque location in the entire Cyclades that Oia. Unsurprisingly, the cliff top town receives more than its fair share of visitors so is best explored with a local tour guide to get the most authentic experience.
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Greek Wedding Show
Known across the world for their plate smashing raucous atmosphere, Greek weddings are one of the country’s most celebrated traditions. To get a taste of this riotous experience, the Greek Wedding Show in Fira allows audience members to participate in an interactive 1940s wedding. Lasting for 90 minutes, audience members join in with traditional Greek dances and try the gastronomic specialties of the Cyclades.
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Catamaran Cruise
Sail across the Santorini Caldera by day in a catamaran and enjoy swimming in the tranquil waters and thrilling snorkeling tours in its plethora of bio-diverse volcanic rock coves. What is more, the catamaran tour will take you to the world-famous White and Red Beach alongside Indian Rock and the historic Venetian Lighthouse.
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Greek Food
Owing to Santorini’s fertile volcanic soil and rich seas, there are few better places in Greece to sample the local cuisine. A food tour of the island’s taverns and wineries lets visitors sample the best Santorini has to offer with a meze style dinner showcasing Cycladic specialties and a wine tasting highlighting indigenous grape varieties.
