Things to do in Santorini

The caldera of Santorini is one of the world’s natural wonders and has even been associated with the myth of Atlantis city. The scenic landscape consists of rocks, cliffs and volcanic islets that gracefully merge with sea and sky blues. You can easily rent a boat or hop on a day cruise at Athinio, Gialos or Ammoudi, and enjoy a tour around the famed, croissant shaped caldera. Explore the vibrant towns of Oia and Fira, both of which have many bars and restaurants. Discover the churches built into caves and the old stairs used for mining excavations along the cliffs. On the small island of Palia Kameni, you can even dive into the thermal waters that form a volcanic spa. Red and black rocks create a wild landscape around the crater on Nea Kameni, the neighboring island in the heart of the caldera. From the top of the island’s 2.5 million-year-old volcano, you can enjoy a marvelous view of the entire caldera.

Akrotiri is a prehistoric city that lies beneath a bioclimatic shelter. Walking over wooden bridges you will encounter one of the most important and well-preserved civilizations in the Mediterranean, which was covered by the ashes of the volcanic eruption in 1600 B.C. Visit the museum of Prehistoric Thera, at Fira, to admire its famous frescoes, among them Spring, The Monkeys and The African. A world frozen in time awaits you!

The imposing rock of Skaros, visible from Fira and Imerovigli, is situated 330m above sea level. Here you will discover the mediaeval capital of Santorini. Within the Venetian castle you will find houses, temples and former residencies. Climb up to the top and the spectacular panorama of the caldera – from Oia to Fira – will unfold right before you.

Santorini is famous for its excellent wine. There are several wineries on the island, each with its own distinct ambiance and, of course, originally flavored selection of wines. Among some of the island’s best wineries are Artemis Karamolegos Winery, Venetsanos Winery, Domaine Sigalas (in Oia), Gavalas and Boutari Wineries (in Megalochori), Santo and Hatzidakis Wineries (in Pyrgos). Whichever one you choose to visit, make sure you try the one-of-a-kind whites besides the robust reds; especially the renowned Vinsanto, Nychteri, and Mezzo varieties.

A delightful little village located northwest of Fira, with a view to lush green vineyards. Its scenic buildings are not your typical Cycladic stonewash white; you will come across orangey-blue and rosy colored little houses, that beautifully contrast the azure background of the Aegean. Explore the hidden cobblestone alleys, visit the courtyard of St Matrona, and taste the local delicacies in the area’s local tavernas.

Taking a walk around Santorini is a once in a lifetime experience! The whitewashed buildings, the infinite caldera- create a romantic, storybook-like setting that will win your heart from the very first moment. Enjoy a relaxed stroll amidst the charming cave-like houses from Fira to Firostefani and Imerovigli. If you are feeling a little adventurous, take the path to Oia, past the Prophet Elijah’s Church, the Chapel of the Cross and the Black Mountain. A fantastic route beyond words!

Oia’s majestic sunset has a worldwide reputation of being truly spectacular. You will find yourself awed by the myriad of pinks and sky colored shades as you gaze into the horizon in order to take in as much of the glorious twilight you possibly can.

Santorini is an important island with a longstanding history. There are numerous fascinating museums to visit, each housing rare collections and displays. Namely, the Archaeological Museum (displays local artifacts, findings, sculptures, frescoes, Byzantine artworks and more), the Museum of Prehistoric Thira (home of various archaeological findings from the nearby area), the Wine Museum (a natural cave 6 m below ground showcasing the history of wine), the Tomato Industrial Museum, the Santorini Arts Factory, the Lignos Folklore Museum (housed in an old winery which was built in 1861) , the Megaro Gizi Cultural Center (where various events takes place such as painting exhibitions, concerts, seminars, film showings, theatrical and dance performances) the Naval Maritime Museum (exhibits the Maritime history of Thira), the Museum of Minerals and Fossils (houses a display of fossils and minerals from Santorini and other parts of Greece).

Dive into the alluring depths of the Aegean: Cape Tripiti in Thirassia, the shipwreck at Taxiarchis, Palia Kameni, Adiavatis reef, the caves at Mesa Pigadia and the “Indian rock” of Akrotiri.

Sign up for one of the many cooking classes available and learn the chefs’ secrets on how to prepare Santorini’s scrumptious delicacies, such as tomato patties, “sfougato”, “melitinia” and sweet “koufeto”.

The spectacular open-air Cinema Kamari is rightfully considered one of the best in Europe due to its scenic garden, dimmed lighting and peaceful ambiance. The cinema has been screening first class movies ever since the 80s. A truly unique movie experience, staged beneath the starry sky of Santorini.