There are so many things to do on this beautiful little island. To help you narrow it down, here are some of the 5 best things to do in Santorini, Greece.

Santorini has long been a destination island. Deep blue ocean waters, traditional white washed Greek homes, and a rugged cliff side that invites you in to this idyllic island. Santorini caters to the adventurous, the foodie, and the ones looking to relax. There’s so much to do! If you have a limited amount of time, here are some of the 5 best things to do in Santorini, Greece.

5 Best Things to Do in Santorini, Greece

Grab a Plate of Local Food
Hike from Fira to Oia
Walk the Winding Paths of Oia
Catch a View at Ammoudi Bay
Watch the Famous Santorini Sunset

1. Grab a Plate of Local Food

I think one of the best ways to experience the culture of a destination is to eat the local cuisine. Trust me when I say that the Greek islands have some of the freshest, flavorful, and delicious dishes I’ve tasted. On Santorini it can be harder to find authentic cuisine, but if you just step outside of the main walking strip of Oia, you’ll be able to find some amazing affordable food. I would recommend Niko’s Gyros; and unassuming little store tucked away in a side street just off the main square where the local bus runs. It was some of the best Gyros I had on my entire trip. One other thing you must try is the local Greek yogurt with honey (I always added walnuts)! It’s so light and refreshing, I can’t even begin to tell you how much I enjoyed this for breakfast each day. Real Greek yogurt is nothing like what you get in U.S. grocery stores, and I mean that in a good way!!!

A Greek Breakfast — A simple Greek breakfast of yogurt with honey and walnuts, coffee, crepe, and tea.

2. Hike from Fira to Oia

The hike from Fira to Oia (or vice versa) will undoubtedly always come up as the number one thing to do on Santorini. A couple of fore-warnings though; 1) You will get tired and want to stop, but you can’t 2) The sun will be blazing on you the entire time 3) The views were some of the best I had experienced on Santorini. In short, I can see why this is the number one activity to do on Santorini. Just be prepared to set off early! You can also view some additional tips and photos of my own Hike from Fira to Oia

3. Walk the Winding Paths of Oia

A lot of Santorini and the town of Oia consists of hidden alleyways and stairs that leadin to breathtaking views. Don’t hesitate and take a stroll away from the tourist crowded streets. Just make sure that you are respecting people’s personal property; don’t climb on their roofs or in their yards to an Instagram photo!

Views from one of Santorini's Winding Paths — A view from one of Santorini’s hidden and winding foot paths.

4. Catch a View at Ammoudi Bay

If you’ve ever seen the move “Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants”, then you’ll know beautiful this bay is on screen. Just imagine it person though! Take a walk, a donkey ride, or a car down to Ammoudi Bay and you can enjoy a day in the water or an expensive lunch by the sea.

5. Watch the Famous Santorini Sunset

Take some time, if only once on your trip, to take in the sunset at Oia’s castle ruins. Yes, it is crowded. Yes, it can be a let down if you expect a life changing sunset, but it’s worth it. Just remember to take a moment, realize your surroundings, and appreciate how the setting sun casts a beautiful glow onto the houses perched off Santorini’s famous cliffs.