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When people think of Santorini, they often imagine whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking sunsets. While those iconic views are certainly worth experiencing, there is so much more to discover on this extraordinary volcanic island.
If you’re planning your holiday and searching for the best things to do in Santorini, this guide will help you experience the island beyond the typical tourist attractions. From exploring picturesque villages and tasting world-famous volcanic wines to hiking along the caldera and enjoying authentic local cuisine, these experiences will allow you to discover the true spirit of Santorini.
No visit to Santorini is complete without wandering through its beautiful villages. Each one has its own unique character and story.
The best way to visit several villages in one day without worrying about transportation is by joining a private Santorini island tour, where a local guide can share fascinating stories and hidden spots that most visitors miss.
One of the most unforgettable things to do in Santorini is watching the sunset.
Although Oia is the island’s most famous sunset location, there are many wonderful viewpoints that are less crowded and equally magical. Depending on the experience you’re looking for, you can enjoy the sunset while exploring the island on a Sunset Island Tour or combine it with a relaxing Sunset Wine Tour, where you’ll sip exceptional local wines as the sky turns shades of gold, pink, and orange.
It’s a truly unforgettable way to end your day.
Santorini’s volcanic landscape has shaped its agriculture for thousands of years, making it unlike anywhere else in Greece.
Visiting a traditional local farm is one of the most authentic things to do in Santorini. You’ll learn about local farming traditions, discover how Santorini’s famous cherry tomatoes, capers, and fava beans are grown, and gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s unique culinary heritage.
Many visitors choose a farm experience combined with an island tour, local wine tasting, and a delicious traditional lunch, making it one of the most complete cultural experiences available on the island.
Santorini is a paradise for food lovers.
Its volcanic soil gives incredible flavor to local ingredients, creating dishes that are simple yet unforgettable.
Some specialties you shouldn’t miss include:
Many of our private island tours, wine tours, and our farm experience include a traditional lunch where you can enjoy these authentic flavors while learning about their history from your guide.
Among all the things to do in Santorini, wine tasting is an absolute must.
Santorini has one of the world’s oldest wine-producing traditions, and its volcanic soil creates distinctive mineral-rich wines that cannot be replicated elsewhere.
The island is particularly famous for:
Whether you choose a morning winery tour, a sunset wine experience, or a private wine tour combined with lunch, you’ll visit beautiful wineries, meet passionate local producers, and taste some of Greece’s finest wines.
All our wine tours.
Our blog post about our wine tours.
Food tastes even better when you learn how to prepare it yourself.
A traditional cooking class is one of the most enjoyable and interactive things to do in Santorini. Under the guidance of experienced local chefs, you’ll prepare authentic Greek recipes using fresh local ingredients before enjoying the meal you’ve created.
Many visitors choose to combine a cooking class with an island tour, allowing them to experience both Santorini’s landscapes and its rich culinary traditions in a single day.
For active travelers, the famous hike from Fira to Oia offers some of the best views on the island.
The trail follows the edge of the caldera, passing through Firostefani and Imerovigli while offering breathtaking panoramas of the Aegean Sea, volcanic cliffs, and whitewashed villages.
It’s considered one of the most scenic hikes in Greece.
We also organize guided hikes on selected dates throughout the month, allowing visitors to safely enjoy the trail while learning about Santorini’s geology, history, and culture from knowledgeable local guides.
Santorini has long inspired artists from around the world.
Visiting one of the island’s local art galleries is a wonderful way to experience its creative side while discovering works inspired by the island’s unique light, landscapes, and traditions.
For visitors looking for a richer cultural experience, we offer private tours that combine a visit to a local art gallery with wine tasting and a delicious traditional lunch.
Beyond its stunning scenery, Santorini has a fascinating history dating back thousands of years.
A visit to the Archaeological Museum offers insight into the island’s ancient civilizations, volcanic past, and cultural development.
History lovers can combine their museum visit with wine tasting and lunch, creating a perfect day that blends culture, gastronomy, and local traditions.
Looking for something truly different?
A painting lesson accompanied by local Santorini wine offers a relaxing and creative experience unlike any other.
Whether you’re an experienced artist or have never picked up a paintbrush before, you’ll enjoy creating your own artwork while sipping excellent volcanic wines in a beautiful island setting.
It’s a memorable activity for couples, friends, families, and solo travelers alike.
There are countless things to do in Santorini, but the most memorable experiences are the ones that help you connect with the island’s people, traditions, food, and culture.
At Santorini Local Guides, we specialize in carefully designed private experiences that go beyond sightseeing. Whether you’d like to explore picturesque villages, discover award-winning wineries, enjoy authentic local cuisine, hike along the caldera, visit cultural landmarks, or try something completely unique like a painting lesson with wine, we’ll help you experience Santorini in a truly authentic way.
Browse our collection of private tours and let our local guides show you the very best that Santorini has to offer.
No matter how long you stay, Santorini will keep surprising you. With a local guide by your side, you’ll experience more than just the highlights — you’ll connect with the island’s true spirit.
👉 Browse All Our Tours and make your Santorini trip unforgettable.
