The Must-Do Day Trips in Santorini, Greece
Santorini (also called Thera) is so much more than whitewashed houses overlooking a caldera; it’s also about tradition and history. To truly appreciate this Cycladic island and its surroundings, separate yourself from the sunbed and plan a day trip, ticking off traditional villages, ancient sites and volcanic islets with our what-not-to-miss list.
1. Boat tour of the volcanic isles
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Just across Santorini’s caldera lie two uninhabited islets, Palea (old) and Nea (new) Kameni, which were gradually formed following the main and subsequent volcanic eruptions that resulted in parts of Strongili being cut off. Take a day to discover the isles, swim in their hot, sulphuric waters and gaze at the crater up close. The many guided boat tours from Fira promise to let you walk to the ridge of the volcano and take a pretty high-risk selfie.
2. Boat trip to Therasia
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Along with Palea and Nea Kameni, the inhabited Therasia island was once part of larger Strongili before being cut off by the eruption. Now Therasia stands proudly opposite Santorini, its raw beauty complementing Thera’s cosmopolitan vibe. To get to the island, travel by boat from Athinios or Ammoudi ports in Oia; once there, explore delightful settlements and quaint churches, with unparalleled views of Santorini from across the sea in Manolas village.
3. Road trip to Akrotiri and other traditional villages
Building, Museum
4. Swimming, villages and Prophet Elias Monastery
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5. Private cruise in Santorini
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For a more exclusive experience, book a private cruise on a luxurious yacht; whether tailor-made or with a fixed schedule, the cruise will allow you to swim in idyllic spots while avoiding the crowds. Dive into Palea Kameni’s hot springs, try snorkelling at the White Beach, swim under the Indian Rock in Akrotiri and watch the sunset, submerged in the water. Dinner, drinks and snorkelling equipment are all included in the price.
6. Boat trip to Anafi
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Escape Santorini’s bustle with a short ferry ride to the serene Cycladic island of Anafi. Its narrow, stone-paved alleys will invite you to take peaceful walks amid the characteristic whitewashed houses, some showcasing large ovens that look like they’re part of a super-filtered Instagram post. The island resembles the picturesque area of Anafiotika in Athens, as construction workers from Anafi who settled in the Greek capital in the 19th century, helped rebuild the capital borrowing elements from Anafi’s unique architecture.
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