12 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI, Greece

One of the most photographed spots on the island, and for good reason. The Red Beach sits at the base of intense, red-colored volcanic cliffs. The beach itself is covered in dark, iron-rich pebbles and sand, creating a landscape that feels truly incredible. It’s not the best beach for laying out and relaxing, but honestly, it’s still a really cool spot to visit if you’re heading to the southern part of the island.

Getting there involves a short walk from the Akrotiri parking area, where the small chapel is located, followed by a path along the cliffside. It’s important to note that access is sometimes restricted due to the risk of falling rocks from the unstable cliffs above. Always check the latest conditions before visiting. If the path is closed, you can still visit with a view from above or take a boat tour along the coast.

The Red Beach is best visited in the morning before the crowds arrive.

If you want one of the most rewarding views on Santorini without the crowds, Skaros Rock is the answer. This large rock extends from the village of Imerovigli and was once the site of a medieval fortress. The hike is easy to moderate and takes about 30-40 minutes each way, with some steep and uneven sections near the top. But the payoff is incredible: 360 degree panoramic views of the caldera, the surrounding islands, and the Aegean stretching endlessly in every direction.

Along the way down, you will also find the small chapel of Panagia Theoskepasti tucked into the rock, a beautiful and peaceful spot to pause. Avoid midday. It is highly recommended to go early in the morning or for sunset, as the hike has no shade and can get very hot.

Oia is the village you have probably seen a thousand times in photos, and walking through it in person somehow still exceeds expectations. The narrow cobblestone streets go past whitewashed buildings with bright blue domes, pink bougainvillea over stone walls, and small shops selling handmade jewelry and art. Literally every corner feels like a postcard.

Oia is easy to explore and doesn’t require much time. Walking from the main boulevard to the sunset viewpoint and back takes around 30 minutes. Take your time, get a little lost, and let Oia reveal itself at its own pace. It’s also a perfect place to take a break and enjoy lunch, with lots of great options for food and drinks.

For the best experience, visit early in the morning before the cruise ship crowds arrive or in the late afternoon when the light turns everything golden.

There is a reason this sunset has its own reputation. Watching the sun drop behind the caldera from Oia is one of the best things to do in Santorini, but be warned, it gets extremely crowded, especially in peak season. But I do get the hype!

The most iconic spot is near the ruins of the Byzantine Castle, where people start claiming spots hours in advance. If you want a more relaxed experience, find a quieter viewpoint along the path between Oia and Imerovigli. The sunset looks incredible from almost anywhere along the western caldera edge.

Beyond Oia and Fira, Santorini is full of charming villages that each have their own personality and atmosphere. Taking the time to explore these quieter spots gives you a completely different side of the island, one with fewer tourists, more authentic character, and some of the best views you will find anywhere. Here are the villages that stood out to me the most.

Pyrgos is the highest village on Santorini and one of the most beautiful. Built around a medieval Venetian castle (Kasteli), its narrow stepped streets wind upward to a viewpoint that offers 360 degree panoramic views of the entire island. Unlike Oia and Fira, Pyrgos is still relatively uncrowded and has a wonderfully authentic feel. Small churches, traditional shops, and quiet terraces are scattered throughout. The nearby Monastery of Profitis Ilias sits on the island’s highest peak and is worth a visit for the views and the history.

Imerovigli sits at the highest point of the caldera and is often called the “Balcony to the Aegean” for good reason. It is quieter and more romantic than Fira, with boutique hotels, infinity pools, and also beautiful sunset views. The hike out to Skaros Rock starts here, and the small blue domed Anastasi Church is one of Santorini’s most photographed landmarks. If you want a more peaceful and intimate atmosphere without sacrificing the views, this is the place.

Megalochori is one of Santorini’s most traditional and authentic villages, and it’s another great escape from the more touristy areas. The village is built around a central square with a beautiful bell tower and features narrow alleys lined with old captain’s mansions and neoclassical architecture. It’s also at the heart of Santorini’s wine region, with famous estates like Venetsanos and Gavalas Winery just a short drive away. Look for the “Heart of Santorini,” a heart shaped opening in the rocks that has become a popular photo spot.

Perissa is Santorini’s beach town, known for its long stretch of black volcanic sand. The beachfront is lined with sunbeds, tavernas, and bars, making it a great spot for a relaxed day by the water. Beyond the beach, you can hike up to Ancient Thera for great views, visit the Museum of Minerals and Fossils, or simply enjoy the more laid back, budget friendly atmosphere compared to the caldera villages and offers a completely different vibe.

This is one of the most beautiful hikes you can do in Greece. The trail runs along the caldera rim for roughly 10.5 kilometers (6.5 miles), passing through Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and eventually ending in Oia. Along the way, you get constantly changing views of the volcanic islands, the deep blue sea, and the cliffs rising from the water.

The hike takes about 3 to 5 hours depending on your pace and how often you stop (and you will stop a lot for photos). Most of the trail is well marked but some sections are rocky and uneven, so good footwear is essential. The best direction is Fira to Oia, since it is mostly downhill or flat. Once you reach Oia, reward yourself with a cold drink and stay for sunset.

Start the hike early in the morning, especially during summer when temperatures rise. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat.

While most visitors go to the more famous beaches, Eros Beach remains one of Santorini’s best kept secrets. Located between dramatic volcanic rock formations near Vlychada, this small stretch of coastline has an almost lunar landscape that feels completely unique. The eroded cliff walls create natural sculptures that tower above the shoreline.

Eros Beach is quieter than Perissa or Kamari and has a more rugged, untouched feel. There is a beach bar (Theros Wave Bar) where you can grab a drink and relax on sunbeds.

Santorini is not just about views and beaches. The island has a fascinating archaeological history that goes back thousands of years.

Akrotiri is a very well-presedved Bronze Age settlement that was buried under volcanic ash around 1600 BC. As you walk through the covered site, you can see streets, buildings, and even original frescoes, giving you a glimpse of what life was like in this ancient city.

Ancient Thera is another must visit. Located on the top of Mesa Vouno mountain between Perissa and Kamari, these ruins date back to the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. You’ll find the remains of a church, temples, shrines, and even a theater. If you want to dive deeper, the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira houses many of the incredible artifacts and frescoes discovered at Akrotiri.

Akrotiri is often called the “Pompeii of Greece” because the volcanic eruption preserved the city in remarkable detail. The site is covered, so it is a great activity even on a hot day.

If you are looking for a classic beach day with all the amenities, Perissa and Kamari are your best options. Both beaches feature Santorini’s signature black volcanic sand, lined with sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, and restaurants right on the waterfront.

Perissa is the longer of the two, stretching for several kilometers with a more relaxed, backpacker friendly vibe and excellent water sports options including jet skiing and parasailing. Kamari has a slightly more polished feel, with a promenade lined with shops and tavernas. The two beaches are separated by the Mesa Vouno mountain.

Santorini’s volcanic soil produces some of the most special wines in the Mediterranean. The island is especially known for Assyrtiko, a crisp, mineral driven white wine, as well as the sweet dessert wine Vinsanto and the traditional white Nykteri.

Some of the most popular wineries include Santo Wines, Venetsanos Winery, and Domaine Sigalas near Oia (consistently rated as one of the best on the island).

Tucked just below Oia, Ammoudi Bay is one of the best places to visit in Santorini. This small harbor is lined with seafood restaurants right by the crystal-clear water. It’s especially popular for romantic sunset dinners. There are a few ways to reach Ammoudi Bay. You can walk down the 280+ steps next to Oia’s Castle, or take a car or taxi. You might also see donkeys offering rides down, but I don’t recommend this option.

Fira is the capital of Santorini and most visitors pass through it at some point, but few take the time to explore beyond the main caldera walkway. Just a short walk north lies Firostefani, a quieter extension of Fira. Both are full of hidden photo spots: narrow stairways draped in bougainvillea and whitewashed churches with blue domes tucked between buildings.

One of my favorite things to do is simply wander without a plan. Duck into side streets, climb down steps that seem to lead nowhere, and you will find quiet corners with incredible views that feel completely private. Early morning is the magic window before the town fills up with day trippers from the cruise ships.

I especially loved walking the streets near Dana Villas & Infinity Suites, this was where I stayed on my first visit to Santorini. The photos below were taken in that area, and when we wandered around, it was incredibly quiet and almost empty.