Greece

Things to do in Santorini

Santorini is the rim of a flooded volcanic caldera, with Fira, Imerovigli and Oia lined up along cliffs 300 metres above the sea. Boat trips cross to the still-active Nea Kameni volcano and its hot springs, the Bronze Age town of Akrotiri lies preserved under ash, and the island's wineries grow Assyrtiko in vines woven into low baskets against the wind.

  • Caldera catamaran cruise with sunset
  • Nea Kameni volcano and hot springs boat trip
  • Santorini winery tour with Assyrtiko tasting
  • Akrotiri archaeological site visit

Experiences in Santorini

Food toursTaste the city the way locals eat it, stall by stall and bar by bar.Walking toursThe fastest way to understand a city on day one, with a local guide.Day tripsFull-day excursions to the places worth leaving the city for.Boat toursSee the city or the coast from the water, from short cruises to full-day sailing.Cooking classesLearn two or three local dishes and eat what you cook.Outdoor and natureHikes, kayaks and nature trips within easy reach of the city.Wine toursCellar visits and tastings in the wine areas close to the city.

Top-rated experiences in Santorini

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Highlights

  • Caldera catamaran cruise with sunset
  • Nea Kameni volcano and hot springs boat trip
  • Santorini winery tour with Assyrtiko tasting
  • Akrotiri archaeological site visit
  • Fira to Oia caldera hike
  • Greek cooking class

Best time to visit

May, June, September and early October have warm sea and fewer crowds than July and August. From November to March many hotels, restaurants and boat trips close, and ferries run less often.

Getting around

KTEL buses run from the Fira hub to Oia, the beaches and the airport and port; quad bikes and cars are popular but roads are narrow and busy. Book port and airport transfers ahead in summer, as taxis are few.

Local tips

  • For the Oia sunset, claim a spot an hour early or watch it from a boat or from Imerovigli instead.
  • Skip the donkeys on the Fira steps and use the cable car or walk up.
  • The Fira to Oia path is about 10 km with little shade: start early and carry water.

Day trips from Santorini

  • Thirassia
  • Nea Kameni
  • Ios
Day trips →

Frequently asked questions

What are the top things to do in Santorini?

The most booked experiences in Santorini are Caldera catamaran cruise with sunset, Nea Kameni volcano and hot springs boat trip, Santorini winery tour with Assyrtiko tasting and Akrotiri archaeological site visit.

When is the best time to visit Santorini?

May, June, September and early October have warm sea and fewer crowds than July and August. From November to March many hotels, restaurants and boat trips close, and ferries run less often.

How do I get around Santorini?

KTEL buses run from the Fira hub to Oia, the beaches and the airport and port; quad bikes and cars are popular but roads are narrow and busy. Book port and airport transfers ahead in summer, as taxis are few.

Do I need to book tours in Santorini in advance?

For headline sights and small-group tours, yes: popular slots sell out in high season. Most partners offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

How many days do I need in Santorini?

Two to three full days cover the main sights, plus one day for each day trip you want to add.

Nearby destinations

Athens231 km awayIstanbul596 km awayOtranto734 km awayGallipoli765 km away