Top Things to See and Do in Santorini, Greece

People flock to Santorini on the promise of its glorious sunsets alone. The village of Oia, located on the northwestern tip of the island, is the most popular spot to watch one. It attracts quite a crowd, but join them to enjoy raspberry-hued skies and dazzling panoramas as the sun dips. Built on a steep slope of the caldera, the village’s classic Cyclades white-washed houses will glow in golden hour. If you are crowd-adverse, head up to the quieter hillside just behind Oia.

Did you know Santorini is home to an active volcano? The most recent major eruption happened in 1650BCE, so taking a hike around the rim of the caldera (crater) is a must-do and perfectly safe. This adventure will see you walk along paths trodden for centuries. It comes with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea and a scattering of nearby volcanic islands. Just don’t wear flip flops on your walk – the paths are uneven and rocky.

Tomatoes are big business in Santorini. However, this museum goes far deeper than a love of this juicy red fruit. The museum features vintage equipment and machinery from 1890 used in the tomato-canning industry, but also shares the culture and traditions of Santorini’s citizens via recordings, imagery and manuscripts. It’s housed in a former factory close to Vlychada Beach, where there’s also a shop selling local artwork, clothes and handcrafted jewellery.

If you don’t take a picture, did it really happen? Santorini has dozens of azure-capped churches, but the most photographed are a trio of domes in Oia that belong to the churches of Agios Spiridonas and Anastaseos. You’ll recognise them from every travel photo of Santorini. In an Instagram-obsessed world, finding them has become a holiday challenge. There are plenty of tips and directions on how to get “that shot” here.

So you thought Santorini couldn’t get any better? SantoWines was founded in 1947, and today it’s run as part of a local, sustainable co-operative, so it can thrive for many years to come. The vineyards are split across terraces and backed by a volcanic cliff. Take a vineyard tour before a wine tasting and learn all about the fermenting process. There’s a shop on site so you can buy a souvenir bottle to enjoy at home.

Don’t leave this gorgeous island without admiring it from out at sea. Choose your time of day and vessel: a catamaran or a traditional Greek Caique boat perhaps, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring new nooks. The volcano of Santorini, neighbouring island of Thirassia and the Nea Kameni hot springs are great options. Many cruises offer a barbecue or full Greek feast with local wines. Some will swing by a beach for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing.

In Santorini, the local cuisine doesn’t stop at moussaka, Greek salads and tzatziki. Here, you also get fresh local produce from the catch of the day and juicy sweet tomatoes, to olives straight off the tree. There are plenty of seafront, family-run restaurants where you’ll feel more like a guest at a friend’s home than a paying customer. Order the island favourite saganaki – portions of fried cheese in filo pastry drizzled in honey – over and over.

Red Beach is like no other. For starters, it’s flanked by dramatic red cliffs on a bed of black volcanic sand. It’s located in Akrotiri, not far from the archaeological site. While it’s small in size, there are plenty of umbrellas and sunbeds to go round, plus it’s a great spot for snorkelling in the crystal clear waters. In the north of the island, you’ll find the peaceful White Beach. It’s a little more isolated with underwater caves and waters full of fish.

Right at the bottom of the village of Oia, you’ll find the charming port of Ammoudi. Reach it by walking down the 200 steps, or take the traditional route and let a donkey do all the heavy lifting. It’s a tiny, beautiful bay with crystal waters and fishing boats. There are no beaches, but a swim out into the deep blue Aegean Sea is essential. Dive from the dock and look up to take in the towering red cliffs above.