With its iconic white-washed villages and striking palette of blues, Santorini is known the world over for its breathtaking beauty. This gem of an island lies in the Aegean Sea, part of a group of Greek Islands known as the Cyclades. Here are the top things to do in Santorini and some of the loveliest places to stay (with views!).

Oia, Santorini

Beautiful Oia, the most visited village in Santorini, is an angel beauty above a sparkling sapphire sea. Spend an afternoon strolling through this pretty town before watching the sun set over the sea with its myriad of colours. You could even book a table at one of many restaurants overlooking the town.

Take a cruise

One of the best things to do in Santorini is tour Santorini is by boat or catamaran. Many of the sea tours showcase the scenic sites, visit the volcano at Palea Kameni and provide lunch and wine. There’s even a little time for a refreshing swim in the inviting waters of the Aegean.

Village of Pyrgos

This charming little village is quite a way from the sea but well worth visiting if you love a spectacular view. It’s also a very pretty town itself with a photo opportunity around every corner.

The whitewashed hilltop homes, churches and tiny winding footpaths are worth exploring. Selene, one of the most highly rated restaurants in Greece, is located in Pyrgos.

Hiking Trail, Fira to Oia

For one of the most beautiful and unique hikes on the Greek islands, follow the trail between Fira and Oia. This scenic path winds across the cliffs for about 10km through the villages of Fira, Firostefani and Imerovigli. You’ll find many amazing photo-worthy spots along the route. The hike is a decent climb and can be challenging, so be prepared with water and provisions, especially in the summer heat.

Amoudi Bay

Amoudi Bay is a tiny fishing village that sits below Oia. With sparkling deep blue and turquoise waters, it’s an inviting place for a refreshing swim.

Amoudi Bay has some great traditional Greek seafood tavernas, including Katina’s Taverna, where you can eat a delicious meal right on the water.

Wine Tasting

Santorini is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. Sip a glass of delicious Santorini wine while basking in the breathtaking panoramic view at Santo Wines. You can join a winery tour or tasting session. Alternatively sit back and pair your wine with a delicious Mediterranean meal featuring local farming produce.

Akrotiri Archaeological Site

Step into the ancient world with a visit to the Akrotiri site, often referred to as the ‘Greek Pompei’. The site was buried for centuries under ash and debris from a massive volcanic explosion in the 16th Century BC.

The Akrotiri site is an insight into the lives of the ancient Minoans. This ancient civilisation was incredibly advanced for its time, living in houses with hot and cold running water, underfloor heating and indoor lavatories. The Minoan people painted elaborate frescoes, made their own wine and crafted furniture, pots and sculptures.

The site’s pathways wind through small homes, clay buildings and artefacts to give you a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the ancient Minoans.

Museum of Prehistoric Thira

This museum makes the perfect complement to Akrotiri, showcasing ancient art and artefacts uncovered from various excavations.

The items on display from the dig at Akrotiri are stunning, well-displayed with comprehensive explanations in Greek and English. Don’t miss the beautiful frescoes in the basement downstairs!

Best Hotels in Santorini

Cavo Tagoo Santorini is a new five-star luxury hotel in Imerovigli with mesmerising views and rooms with inviting infinity pools. The sunsets here are spectacular!

Enjoy Greek open fire grill cuisine on the hotel terrace and cocktails, refreshments and light meals at the hotel’s pool bar.

Cavo Tagoo can arrange car hire or boat trips to nearby islands and private day cruises.

Katikies is another stunning hotel in Santorini. Perched on the cliffs of Oia, 92m above the blue waters of the Aegean, its infinity pools enjoy sweeping views of the Caldera.

Each of the white-washed rooms has a private terrace with expansive sea views. American breakfast with champagne is served in your room, or on your private veranda. Guests receive wine and fruit as a welcome gift.

We hope you find your perfect things to do in Santorini and wish you a wonderful Santorini holiday! Let us help you find the perfect package/accommodation or even a Mediterranean cruise that visits this celebrated island.

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