Santorini is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece and is a dream vacation destination for travellers. Aside from its natural beauty, the amazing sunsets, and the panoramic views of the island and sea, there are many other things to do in Santorini.
Hiking, wine tasting or just chilling on the beach? Do it all.
These are the seven things you absolutely must do while you’re in Santorini.
Best things to do in Santorini
How do these rankings work?
1. Watch the Sunset from the Byzantine Castle in Oia
Santorini is known for their epic sunset views and nowhere else is that better to watch than from the ruins of the Byzantine Castle in Oia. Fair warning though, this spot is well-known amongst travellers so you’ll have to jostle your way a bit to get in there.
Come to the castle a bit early (30-60 minutes before sunset) so you can at least carve out your own spot to catch this dramatic yet beautiful sunset.
2. Drive an ATV
You can’t help but notice ATVs everywhere in Santorini, and it’s because this is one of the most popular ways of getting around on this small island. These quad bikes are great for navigating rocky terrain and are just very fun to drive around on this island.
A good tip is to drive your ATV on the right side of your lane, so that cars can pass you on the left.
3. Hike from Fira to Oia
If you enjoy a good hike, this might just be the perfect one for you. The hike from Fira (central part of town) to Oia (northern part) will take you past the familiar white buildings and blue calderas.
This hike is 9km and takes three hours to complete, depending on how many breaks you take in between. Breaks are advisable during the summer months as the heat can be overbearing on this shade-less hike.
4. Red Beach
Red Beach is a unique beach experience because it will probably feel like you’re on a beach on Mars. It is however, an incredibly picturesque beach that you must visit, even if just to get a picture or two.
Come to Red Beach for their rocky red cliffs and dark-coloured sand and notice the contrast between the pristine and bright blue waters.
5. Wine Flight Tasting at Santo Winery
What many may not know is that Santorini is also known for their wineries and they make some fantastic wines! Santo Winery is their largest winery and coming here for some wine while sitting on their outdoor patio is a must.
Live it up and get their wine flight which comes with 18 (count ’em!) different glasses of wine! It comes served with cheese and the amazing views are free.
6. Ancient Akrotiri Ruins
History buffs will be happy to know that there are some cool ruins to check out at the Ancient Akrotiri Ruins. Here, you can see what has been preserved from ancient villages after a volcanic eruption wiped away this town.
You can either book a tour guide or you can check out these ancient ruins on your own.
7. Atlantis Books
Atlantis Books is a charming bookstore located in the heart of Oia and has been named as one of the top 10 bookstores in the world. There is a good selection of books for sale here so take some time to browse around this gem in Oia.
Did you know: the first edition of the book, To Kill a Mockingbird (1960), is for sale here for a whopping price of 17,500 euros ($19,500 USD)!
