Best Things to Do in Santorini, Greece

Santorini is as dramatically beautiful as any Mediterranean island. Located in the middle of the sapphire Aegean Sea, Santorini is the rim of the massive crater of a long-dormant volcano. Steep cliffs rise all around this volcanic caldera, countless whitewashed buildings lining its rocky face.

Santorini is one of the most popular Greek Islands thanks to its dazzling beauty, unique history, and irresistible atmosphere of fun and magic.

Visitors to Santorini are spoiled for choice. Regardless of your interests, there is sure to be something that catches your eye on this queen of the Greek islands.

Catch a Santorini Sunset

There’s no doubt that Santorini has some of the most spectacular sunsets in the world. The dazzling colors of the falling sun bounce off the Aegean, a vibrant showcase of nature at its most beautiful.

The view of the sea, the setting sun, the curves of the island, and the whitewashed architecture and scenery of the island are truly breathtaking. The best places to catch a Santorini, Greece sunset are Oia and Fira.

Explore the Ancient Site of Akrotiri

Akrotiri, on Santorini’s southern tip, is thought by many to be the real-life lost city of Atlantis. Akrotiri was destroyed in the 17th century BC when the island’s volcano erupted. Most of the island was lost.

But much like in Pompeii, when the blast covered Akrotiri in many feet of volcanic ash, much of the Minoan settlement was effectively frozen in time. Excavations are ongoing on this ancient site that is a fascinating time capsule of life on the Aegean 3,000 years ago.

Visit Unique Beaches

Black sand or red sand, which type of beach do you prefer? Kamari and Perissa are the black sand beaches Santorini is most famous for. They are blanketed with ebony volcanic sand, worn smooth over countless years.

Akrotiri Red Sand Beach is another must-see site. The hillsides and sands of this beach near the ancient site of Akrotiri are as richly crimson as Zion National Park.

Take Pictures in Oia and Fira

The iconic sight of Santorini is its blue-domed, whitewashed buildings. Lining the rugged cliffs, Oia and Fira are crisscrossed by dramatic switchback paths from the sea all the way to the top of the caldera. Anyone who wants to take the classic Santorini selfie, with the sea, rugged terrain, and whitewashed architecture, should do so in Oia or Fira.

Taste Local Wines

40 different types of grapes grow on Santorini, which is particularly known for its white wines. There are numerous wineries on the island where you can sit down for a tasting. The combination of Santorini’s vineyards, views, and stellar wines is irresistible to oenophiles from across the globe.

Eat Like a Greek God

Santorini is a foodie’s paradise. It offers a mix of highbrow cuisine and simple, authentic Greek specialities. The seafood on the island is exceptionally good, with some of the freshest fish and octopus you can have anywhere.

Another humble dish you can’t miss is a Santorini Greek salad. Cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers are tossed with olive oil and vinegar to make the most divine salad you’ll ever taste. Topped with feta cheese, the fresh ingredients and simple preparation make this perfect salad a highlight of any meal.

Experience Santorini with YMT Vacations

There are so many things to do in Santorini, Greece. Visiting Santorini promises to be a highlight of any Mediterranean vacation. See this stunning island, among many other unforgettable destinations, with YMT. Our signature Greece and Her Islands Tour or Gems of the Adriatic Cruise are the perfect ways to enjoy a Santorini tour. To book your Santorini tour, contact your travel professional or call YMT Vacations at 1-888-756-9072.