Santorini is a tourist’s dream, boasting everything from hot springs and clear blue waters to archaeological sites full of history. If you love the outdoors, you’ll find plenty to do. If you love history, check out ancient Thira and Akrotiri. If you’re a wine enthusiast, well, Santorini is your perfect destination! Grab your camera and get excited, because Santorini will not disappoint. Here are ten of the best things to do in Santorini, Greece.
Ancient Thira
The ancient Thira archaeological site, located atop the steep Mesa Vouno mountain, holds the ruins of three separate eras: Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine. You’ll find religious sites, city buildings, a theater, and even military headquarters. The sanctuary at the spur of the mountain ridge is particularly noteworthy, as it is home to inscriptions from the city’s beginnings. Make sure you appreciate the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
The Caldera
A caldera is a large volcanic crater formed by a major eruption that collapses the mouth of a volcano. Santorini’s caldera is 12 kilometers by 7 kilometers, and it’s still a site of some volcanic activity. But it’s also a great place to visit, as the center is home to some delightful hot springs. There are also fantastic hiking spots, such as those on Nea Kameni, the volcanic island in the middle of the caldera.
Fira
Fira is Santorini’s capital, and it has become a great place for tourists. The picturesque white houses and terraces, blue-domed churches, and quaint terraces make for great photo opportunities, and the view of the sea is marvelous. You’ll find plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants, and Fira is also the place for nightlife—if you’re looking to party, check out the Koo Club and 2 Brothers bar.
The Fira to Oia Hike
If you’re up for a bit of exercise, the 9 kilometer hike from Fira to Oia might just be the best hike in Santorini. Taking you along the caldera and through the towns of Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and Oia, there will be plenty to do and experience. Bring good shoes, as there are a few different terrains, and your camera, because you’ll find a lot of great photo opportunities. Your trek will take three hours or so, depending on how many stops you make, so plan to get lunch or drinks in Oia afterward.
Luxury Catamaran Day Cruise
Once you’ve completed your hike to Oia, why not reward yourself with a supremely relaxing luxury catamaran day cruise? Starting from the Ammoudi Bay and traveling all around the volcano, caves, and nearby islands, this five-hour venture is incredible. As if the journey and views weren’t enough, you’ll also get a fantastic Greek buffet lunch or dinner, as well as unlimited local wines, beverages, and bottled water. Talk about luxury!
Ancient Akrotiri
The explosion that created Santorini’s caldera also buried the ancient settlement of Akrotiri, a once thriving port town. Archaeological teams dug up Akrotiri’s remains in the late 1860s, and this site is now considered one of the most significant prehistoric settlements of the Aegean Sea area. Visitors can now explore multi-level buildings, drainage systems, and a whole lot of pottery. Get a guide to show you around! And don’t miss Red Beach nearby—you can access it from the modern town of Akrotiri.
Profitis Ilias
Mt. Profitis Ilias is Santorini’s highest point, so you know the views from the summit will be stunning. The mountain is also home to the Profitis Ilias Monastery, founded in 1711. The monastery is a great example of Cycladic architecture, and within it you’ll find evidence of a rich history. Once home to a secret school, it now has its own museum full of icons, books, and other artifacts.
Kamari Beach
On Santorini’s east coast lies the resort town of Kamari, as well as its accompanying beach. This is easily one of the best beaches in Santorini, offering clear blue waters, picture-perfect views of the Mesa Vuono hill, and lounge chairs and umbrellas. If you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon, take a stroll through the town of Kamari and end with a swim.
Santo Winery
You can’t visit Santorini without stopping by one of its many wineries, and Santo Winery was voted one of Wine Enthusiasts Magazine’s 10 Best Wine Travel Destinations. Santo is also considered by many to be one of the best places to view a Santorini sunset. If you’re a wine enthusiast, don’t miss the 18-wine tasting flight!
Jet Ski Tours
If you want a unique—and incredibly fun—way to explore Santorini, take a Jet Ski tour through Wavesports. There are a few different tours, all starting from Perivolos in the south. If you’re looking for a longer venture, join a Jet Ski expedition all the way to the caldera and take a stop at the hot springs. If a shorter trip sounds better, there are also tours to the nearby White Beach and Red Beach. Either way, you’re bound to have a good time.
Whether you’re wine enthusiast, looking for breathtaking volcanic landscapes or boldly colored beaches and bright blue seas Santorini will not disappoint! There is much to see and do on archaeological island full of history.
Santorini, Greece is a beautiful destination for either a travel incentive or executive meeting. Contact Gavel International to learn more about our programs.
This article was last updated on September 21, 2022
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