Santorini's experiences go far beyond standing in Oia waiting for the sunset. The island has excellent wine, extraordinary geological history, world-class sailing and some of the most dramatic beaches in Europe. Here are the 10 best things to do in Santorini in 2026.
✔ Caldera sailing tour — book 2–3 weeks ahead in summer, fills daily
✔ Oia sunset — arrive 45 minutes early for a viewpoint
✔ Wine tasting — Assyrtiko from volcanic soil is world-class
✔ Akrotiri — one of the best Bronze Age sites in Europe, chronically undervisited
Top 10 Things To Do in Santorini
⛵ Caldera Sailing Tour
The essential Santorini experience — a full-day catamaran tour circling the volcanic caldera, with swimming in the hot springs (warm water from volcanic vents), snorkelling at Nea Kameni island, lunch on board and the finest sunset view of the island from the water. Book this before anything else.
Check Availability →🌅 Oia Sunset
The famous Santorini sunset from Oia's castle ruins — one of the most photographed moments in Greece. Arrive 45 minutes before sunset to secure a viewpoint. For a less crowded alternative: the Imerovigli caldera path gives equally spectacular views with a fraction of the crowd.
Check Availability →🍷 Santorini Wine Tasting Tour
The island's volcanic Assyrtiko white wine is among Greece's finest. Winery tours visit 3–4 vineyards with caldera views — Santo Wines, Estate Argyros and Domaine Sigalas are the best. Evening tours combine wine tasting with sunset views from the Pyrgos or Megalochori hillside vineyards.
Check Availability →🏛️ Akrotiri Archaeological Site
A Bronze Age city buried under volcanic ash in 1627 BC — the Minoan Pompeii. Two-storey buildings, frescoes, drainage systems and everyday objects preserved for 3,600 years. Remarkably moving and chronically undervisited. Combined with Red Beach (a short walk) makes a perfect half-day.
Check Availability →🏖️ Red Beach & Volcanic Beaches
Santorini's volcanic beaches are unlike anything else in Europe. Red Beach (dramatic red cliffs, turquoise water), Perissa and Perivolos (long black sand with beach clubs), Kamari (developed, accessible) — all extraordinary in different ways. Red Beach requires a short cliff-path walk from Akrotiri.
Check Availability →🌋 Nea Kameni Volcano Hike
The volcanic island of Nea Kameni in the centre of the caldera — a short boat ride from Fira or included in most sailing tours. Walk to the still-steaming volcanic crater (the last eruption was 1950). One of the most dramatic and accessible active volcano experiences in Europe.
Check Availability →🔭 Imerovigli Sunset Walk
The caldera path from Fira to Imerovigli (45 minutes walk) follows the cliff edge past cave houses and blue-domed churches. Imerovigli sits at the highest point of the caldera rim — the views are extraordinary and the village is significantly less crowded than Oia. Sunset from the Skaros Rock viewpoint is outstanding.
Check Availability →🚡 Cable Car & Old Port
The cable car from Fira down to the Old Port (€6 each way) gives dramatic caldera views on the descent. The Old Port itself is where cruise ships tender passengers — a busy but atmospheric spot with fish restaurants. The walk back up via 580 zigzag steps (with donkeys) is an experience.
Check Availability →🎨 Pyrgos Village
Santorini's highest village — a medieval settlement on the island's central hill, with the finest panoramic views of the entire island from the ruined Venetian castle at the top. Significantly less touristy than Oia, excellent local restaurants and a more authentic atmosphere. Best at sunset with a glass of wine from a hilltop café.
Check Availability →🏊 Swimming at Thirassia Island
The small island of Thirassia sits across the caldera from Santorini — reachable by boat tour and almost entirely undeveloped. A genuine escape from Santorini's busy beaches, with excellent tavernas, crystal water and almost no other visitors. Best combined with a caldera sailing tour.
Check Availability →Book Santorini Tours Before They Sell Out
Popular experiences fill fast in peak season — compare now
View All Santorini Tours →FAQs
How many days do you need in Santorini?
3–4 days covers the main highlights comfortably. More time allows day trips and deeper neighbourhood exploration.
Is Santorini expensive?
Costs vary by season and travel style — see our dedicated budget guide for specific prices.
When is the best time to visit Santorini?
May–June and September–October offer the best balance of weather, crowds and prices.