10 Things Not To Miss in Santorini

The island of Santorini is one of those bucket list destinations that everyone wants to visit at least once in a lifetime. It’s no surprise as Santorini is one of the most beautiful and spectacular islands in Greece, if not the world. Here are top things you should do when you visit Santorini.

Do the Fira to Oia hike

The walk along the stunning caldera from Fira, Santorini’s capital to the pretty village of Oia is well worth doing. It will take you 3.5 to 4 hours to complete but the views along the way are well worth it. Make sure you take plenty of water, wear comfortable shoes and a hat.

Spend time in Oia

One of the most photographed places on the island of Santorini, if not Greece. Visitors flock to see the pretty Cycladic architecture, the sea views, and the famous sunset. Pick your time well to avoid the inevitable crowds.

Take a Luxury Catamaran Cruise to the volcano

Arguably the most popular thing to do in Santorini is to take one of the catamarans or sailing cruises that visit the volcano and hot springs. You’ll sail along the southern coastline of Santorini stopping off along the way at Red Beach, White Beach and into the impressive sea-filled caldera. Santorini is best seen from the sea and this is a perfect way to do just that.  What’s more you’ll also swim, sunbathe and enjoy a complimentary meal with open bar.

Go for cocktails in Fira, the capital of Santorini

Head to the capital of Santorini, Fira and bag a table at one of the cliff side bars. There are many great places to choose from, but a firm favourite is PK Cocktail Bar. Choose your favourite cocktail or drink and watch the spectacle which is the Santorini sunset.

Hit the volcanic beaches for sun, sea and black sand

Spend time recharging your batteries on one of Santorini’s unique volcanic beaches. Perissa, Perivolos and Kamari have organised beach facilities and some excellent beach bars. Relax on your sunlounger, swim in the crystal-clear Aegean waters or maybe try your hand at some water sports.

Experience the epic Santorini sunsets

There are many places to enjoy the marvel that is the Santorini sunset. Forget Oia and head to Pyrgos Village instead. The highest village on the island offers the most amazing views and you won’t be jostling with the crowds. Faros Lighthouse is another great spot to enjoy this mother nature spectacle.

Saddle Up and go Horse riding through unspoilt villages

An alternative way to see the lesser visited parts of Santorini is to go on an escorted horse-riding excursion. You can choose to explore the hidden villages and pathways or visit the stunning lunar landscape that is Vluchada beach.

Sample the best Greek and Santorini food

From delicious Greek salads to local specialities such as the tomato fritters, capers and fava bean, foodies will love the excellent choice of places to eat. Book a table on the caldera for a gastronomy feast with views or head to the authentic inland village of Pyrgos for delicious home cooked food in friendly taverns.

Wine Tasting

Santorini is famous for its unique wines, made from the volcanic vineyards that cover the island. You can choose to sample many different wines in the wineries scattered around the island. A popular choice is Santo Winery in Pyrgos which commands a stunning location on the cliff edge.

Stay in a Cave House

Don’t book a standard room in a hotel. Instead choose to stay in one of the renovated Santorini cave houses. This Pyrgos Villa in Santorini is a classic example of the type of cave accommodation you can find.