Cube-shaped houses clinging to cliffs overlooking a gorgeous blue ocean and white lava pebbles. There are probably no travel bucket lists in the world without this world-famous Greek island. Yes, we’re talking about none other than Santorini!
It has countless things to indulge in, but you may not have as much time and budget. Therefore, we’ve got your back and gathered the absolutely amazing things you must do in Santorini.
What makes our guide different from the hundreds of others out there on the Internet?
We have listed experiences to engage you in every way imaginable! In short, this is the only Santorini travel guide that you’ll ever need!
First Of All, Where Do You Stay?
You must ensure proper rest if you want to enjoy this magnificent island to its fullest. Therefore, where to stay in Santorini is the first decision you should make after you have booked your flight.
There is something for every budget on the island, from luxurious villas to affordable suites, so you won’t have much trouble finding the perfect abode for your stay.
Things to See
Here are nice ways you can treat your eyes while in Santorini.
Best Spots to Watch The Sunrise
I N Ayiou Mapkou Church is a great place to savor the sun’s colors lighting up the morning sky.
Akrotiri Lighthouse is also a quite popular choice. You could go to the Prophet Elias Monastery, Skaros Rock, and various spots in Fira and Oita.
Underrated Sunset Spots
An evening cruise is a great but also a unique way to catch the sunset.
You could get a room at your hotel facing the west to enjoy while you relax on a balcony or even on the bed.
At Oia, the sun literally disappears into the ocean, elevating the whole experience. Other than that, any spot in the caldera villages built on the west of the island is excellent for sunsets.
Nea Kameni Volcanic Islands
Don’t forget your hiking shoes! Many tourists make this silly mistake and miss out on fully indulging in the cool views this place has to offer.
If you want to take a boat and not stand in lines among a huge crowd, take the new port at the Athinios port.
You should also definitely bring a water bottle with you. Walking on an active volcano is a truly surreal experience that you shouldn’t miss out on at any cost.
The Iconic Santorini View
Excited to see the actual view of the picture that probably first piqued your interest in Santorini? Oia Castle is your place to visit.
If you search ‘Santorini’ on the internet, what you’re most probably looking at is Ammoudi Bay.
Things To Taste
No vacation is complete if you don’t take your tastebuds along on a culinary journey.
Scrumptious Local Delicacies
You must taste traditional Greek dishes to ensure an authentic Santorini adventure.
Here are our top picks that you must taste when in Santorini or Greece in general.
Souvlaki (skewers, usually meat), Moussaka (a version of lasagna but with eggplant instead of pasta), Horiatiki salad (traditional Greek salad), Papoutsakia (stuffed eggplants), Pastitsio (Greeklasagna), Soutzoukakia (Greek meatballs), Seafood, Stifado (Greek beef stew) and Tomatokeftedes (tomato fritters).
Things to Smell
Never thought of including your nostrils in your travels?
Here’s your chance to make up for that.
Bask in the Warm Scent of Wine at Local Wineries
This is something that you obviously taste too. However, the subtle scent of Greek wine is what will sway your heart.
Venetsanos winery, Santo Wines, Artemis Karamolegos, Domaine Sigalas, and Gaia Wines are favorites among both tourists and locals.
Saltwater at Some of the Quietest Beaches
Seawater has a distinct salty smell and taste. The scent will engulf you as soon as you step foot on the island.
The best way, however, to make the most of your beach vacation, is to stay somewhere that is close to one of the many beaches of Santorini.
Eros Beach, Koloumbos Beach, and Agia Paraskevi Beach must be on the top of your list if you want to spend a tranquil day at a secluded spot.
Things to Touch
Here are some decent ways to exercise your sense of feeling things by touch.
Cuddle Fur Babies at SAWA
Yes, your visit to the formidable island can also include spruce of adorableness!
At the Santorini Animal Welfare Association, you can do everything from feeding, cleaning, and walking the dogs to a lot more.
Dip Your Toes in Black Sand Beaches
There are few places on earth that indulge all your senses than the beach. The black sand beaches are not only great for dipping your toes but also for your eyes.
Perissa, Perivolos, Vlychada, Columbo and Mesa Pigadia beaches are some nice ones you can visit.
Things to Listen to
Have you always heard Santorini is noisy and crowded?
While you might encounter the buzz of some traffic, here are other things you must let your ears experience while there.
Live Greek Music
A quick search will lead you to numerous cafes and restaurants that have local musicians playing while you bite into some tomato fritters.
You should definitely be sure to call for a reservation if you choose a place that’s usually booked.
Hymns of the Ocean at Kamari Beach
No visit to the extraordinary Greek island is complete without a beach day or for extra contentment multiple beach days. Kamari beach is the least crowded during sunrise.
You’ll undoubtedly have a great time listening to the hum of the sea while enjoying the sunrise.
Bottom Line
The ultimate way to experience an island is by making use of the senses you have, and now you know how to do that in Santorini. Rest assured, you don’t need to read any other Santorini travel guides. You can simply hop on a flight and experience the best of the island!
Among all of the cool things this spectacular island has to offer, don’t forget to take a breath and absorb the elegance of the simple fact of just being able to be there on the island. Be sure to stay safe and enjoy!
