12 Best Things to See in Santorini, Greece

If you’ve ever dreamed of whitewashed houses, blue domes, and sparkling sunsets over the Aegean, Santorini is probably already on your list. This volcanic island in Greece is one of the most beautiful places on earth, filled with picture-perfect villages, scenic hikes, and beaches unlike anywhere else.
In this guide, I’ve rounded up the 12 best things to see in Santorini, from the famous blue domes of Oia to the ancient ruins of Akrotiri. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a summer getaway, or just love Greek island vibes, these are the must-visit spots you shouldn’t miss.

Watch a video of 12 best places to see in Santorini

1. Oia Village – Blue Domes & That Famous Sunset

Oia is the Santorini you’ve seen in every postcard, whitewashed lanes, pastel domes, and sunsets that stop everyone in their tracks. The village sits high on the caldera’s edge, with the best sunset spots around the Byzantine Castle ruins. Arrive an hour early to find a good viewpoint, or book a table at a rooftop restaurant for a front-row view.

Here are some tours you can book in Oia, Santorini

2. Ammoudi Bay – Seafood by the Water

Just below Oia lies Ammoudi Bay, a tiny fishing port where colourful tavernas line the water. You can walk down the 300 steps or take a quick drive. Just remember from 2026 you will not be able to park on the road leading down to Ammoudi bay for safety reasons but if you have a restaurant booking in the bay they can now offer free shuttle ride from the parking point in Oia.

Ammoudi bay is one of the best places in Santorini to enjoy fresh seafood right by the sea; grilled octopus, calamari, and the island’s signature tomato fritters. There are also some cool cliff jumping spots here but a bit tricky to get to so would avoid if you are coming with kids or you are not a confident swimmer.

3. Fira – The Buzzing Capital with Caldera Views

Fira is Santorini’s lively heart filled with cafés, boutiques, and that unbeatable caldera view. It’s the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon wandering through the streets or stopping for a coffee overlooking the cliffside. Don’t miss the Three Bells of Fira, one of the island’s most famous viewpoints.

4. Fira Cable Car – Ride Down to the Old Port

For a bit of fun, take the Fira Cable Car, which connects the town to the old port below. The short ride costs around €10 each way and offers fantastic views over the caldera. You can also walk the zig-zag donkey trail, but be prepared it’s steep and best avoided in the midday sun.

5. Imerovigli – The “Balcony of the Aegean”

Often called the Balcony of the Aegean, Imerovigli is quieter than Oia and just as beautiful. It’s a great spot for a romantic evening or a morning walk. Hike up Skaros Rock for sweeping views it’s one of the most underrated spots for sunset photography in Santorini. This is also a much better and cheaper village to stay in with similar views and feel like Oia.

6. Red Beach – Dramatic Volcanic Cliffs

Near Akrotiri, you’ll find the striking Red Beach, known for its crimson cliffs and black-red sand. The colours are the result of volcanic activity, and the contrast with the turquoise water is stunning. The beach is small, so arrive early, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water it’s a bit of a rocky path down.

7. Sunset Catamaran Cruise – Views from the Sea

Seeing Santorini from the water is an absolute must. A sunset catamaran cruise lets you sail around the caldera, swim in hot springs, and watch the sun sink behind Oia from the sea. Most cruises include a barbeque dinner and drinks, and prices start around €160–€190 per person, totally worth it for the experience! We actually booked via get your guide I will leave a few links below for you incase you need to book.

Book a catamaran cruise from get your guide

8. Megalochori – Neoclassical Village Charm

If you want to see authentic village life, head to Megalochori. This peaceful village is full of neoclassical houses, narrow lanes, and lovely courtyards filled with bougainvillaea. It’s a great place to stop for a local meal or a wine tasting at one of the nearby vineyards.

We actually stayed in the only 5 star property in this village called Vedema resort, which is a celebrity favourite. Watch a full resort review of Vedema resort here. I would highly recommend staying here if you are after that authentic Greek experience.

9. Heart of Santorini – A Hidden Viewpoint

Tucked near the village of Megalochori, the Heart of Santorini is a natural rock formation shaped like a heart. It’s one of the island’s most romantic viewpoints, especially at sunset. The path is easy to walk, and it’s still a bit of a hidden gem compared to Oia or Fira. There is free parking here on the cliff. And you can also take a walk down to the rocky cliff as there is a small path but its quite steep.

10. Kamari Beach – Black Sand

Kamari Beach is one of Santorini’s most popular spots for swimming and relaxing. The long promenade is lined with beach bars, tavernas, and shops, perfect for a lazy afternoon or evening stroll.

They have some lovey beach clubs down the beach if you leave the first few on either side when you arrive many of them have free sunbeds and you pay for food and drinks only. Do bring your towels as most beach clubs wont provide it here. The black sand gets hot, so flip-flops are a must!

Kamari was probably my most favourite beach on the island, as it was quite beautiful and it had so many cheaper options for beach clubs. Also the water here is stunning! Keep some cash at hand and look out for the Chinese masseuse women that comes around and for €50 they do the most amazing massage on the beach! I had a back massage and it was absolute heaven!

11. Perivolos/ Perissa – Luxury Beach Vibe

If you prefer something quieter and luxurious, head further south to Perivolos or Perissa Beach. These two connect along a long stretch of black sand and offer a more laid-back vibe with beach clubs, water sports, and great food. Sunbeds usually cost €100–€300 for two, often including drinks or snacks.

All you luxury and instagrammable beach clubs are here. They look absolutely stunning however I still prefer the vibe at Kamari, its practically the same water! Pictured below is Istoria beach club which was fantastic and was a sister property of Vedema resort where we stayed. So it was great to come here with our luxury pick up and drop from the hotel.

Check out my video for the Istoria beach club review

12. Pyrgos Village – Panoramic Views & Hidden Charm

Pyrgos is one of Santorini’s most underrated villages. Sitting on the highest point of the island, it offers panoramic views in every direction. Wander through quiet alleys, explore the old castle ruins, and enjoy a sunset without the crowds.

Santorini is one of those places that really lives up to the hype. From iconic sunsets to hidden villages, there’s something here for every kind of traveller. If you’re planning a trip, this list of the best things to do in Santorini is the perfect place to start.