Wealthy tradition, thriving traditions and a vigorous meals scene: listed below are the highest issues to do – and eat – in Santorini.
Vacationers look set to return to Santorini after a month of tremors rocked the Greek island.
Talking to Euronews Journey at ITB Berlin 2025, Greek Tourism minister Olga Kefalogianni reassured the general public concerning the state of affairs, stating that as seismic exercise round Santorini is declining, islanders wish to a season that can “function as usually as potential”.
“We need to be sure that our residents and our guests in Santorini will really feel secure, and that they are going to get pleasure from their time on the island.”
Already faculties have opened and, as Santorini prepares to welcome again guests, listed below are a few of the island’s must-see experiences.
Absorb the sights in world-famous Fira
If Athens has the brains and Sparta has the brawn, Santorini is the epitome of Greece’s magnificence.
With its whitewashed facades, mesmerising sunsets and cerulean sea, the Greek island is a transparent head-turner, but there’s extra to this paradise than simply attractiveness.
Santorini’s major city is a hive of exercise with eating places, bars, golf equipment and cafés at each flip. Famed for its gleaming white buildings topped by vibrant indigo domes, Fira embodies the postcard-perfect Santorini scene – stunning buildings, panoramic views, and trailing bougainvillaea.
Absorb the sunshine whereas wandering the cobbled streets or sit at one of many many roadside espresso outlets to look at the world go by. For a dose of historical past, head to the Museum of Prehistoric Thera to marvel at extraordinary finds excavated from Akrotiri, which has been settled since neolithic occasions.
From right here, head to Fira’s caldera edge the place the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral rises majestically into blue skies.
Inbuilt 1827, the cathedral was badly broken in a catastrophic earthquake in 1956. However shortly after, it was fantastically renovated with intricate mosaics, a statuesque bell tower, and sumptuous rolling arches. Inside, the church is adorned with stunning frescoes so that you can admire, painted by native artist Christoforos Asimis.
Benefit from the nice open air on Santorini’s black shores
No go to to Santorini is full with out witnessing one of many world’s most gorgeous sunsets. For one of the best views, head to the Byzantine citadel ruins within the charming, fashionable city of Oia.
From right here, you’ll not solely be elevated to a major place however you’ll even be handled to a glimpse into Oia’s previous amongst its crumbling citadel partitions. Get right here early to ensure your prime viewing place among the many crowds and settle in for Mom Nature’s headline act.
Sunsets apart, Santorini can be identified for its black sand seashores, fashioned via centuries of volcanic exercise. Perissa Seaside on the base of Mesa Vouno Mountain is Santorini’s longest black sand seashore, providing crystal-clear waters and a vibrant ambiance.
Right here you’ll discover comfortable solar loungers, watersports, cafés and a waterpark with three slides and swimming pools for all the household. On the finish of the seashore, an elevated spot is fashionable amongst divers who leap into the ocean beneath.
To proceed your out of doors journey, embark on a guided hike via the ash-covered terrain of Santorini’s energetic volcano within the centre of the caldera.
Nea Kameni, the youngest of the 2 volcanoes, is a must-visit for its gorgeous sulphur-infused waters and therapeutic sizzling springs. As you trek up the black lava perimeters, you’ll encounter the crater and vents releasing sulphur steam, which provide a singular wellness expertise.
The hike additionally rewards you with breathtaking views of Santorini’s cliffs and the picturesque cities of Oia and Fira. To keep away from the extraordinary noon warmth, begin early, or time your hike to catch the sundown for an unforgettable view.
Get off-the-beaten-track in Thirasia
Thirasia is an island remnant of Santorini previous. Situated on the caldera’s west aspect, you’ll discover only a few vacationers right here, permitting you to discover the tiny coves and hovering hills uninterrupted.
The easiest way to discover the hidden seashores and half-abandoned villages is through motorcycle or on foot, although you’ll must hop on a ten-minute water taxi from the Ammoudi harbour to achieve its shores.
In putting distinction to its neighbour’s vigorous bars and bustling outlets, Thirasia stays largely undeveloped, and is described by locals as ‘Santorini 50 years in the past’.
Pattern locally-grown Greek delicacies
From conventional tavernas to worldwide nice eating, foodies can discover Santorini eating places with menus starting from contemporary seafood to sushi.
For a real style of the island, go for native flavours washed down with Greek wine. Santorini is lauded for its crisp dry whites and the amber-coloured dessert wine referred to as Vinsanto, comprised of the indigenous grape selection, assyrtiko.
Take a look at the native vineyards, which provide excursions and wine tastings – some even curate pairings with meals grown on the island.
To study from the masters, enroll in a cookery class just like the Petra Kouzina Cooking Expertise, throughout which you’ll get to attempt your hand at a number of Greek dishes earlier than sitting down for a communal meal on the terrace.