Visitors appear poised to come back to Santorini following a series of earthquakes that shook the Greek island for a month.
At ITB Berlin 2025, when speaking with Euronews Travel, Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni calmed the public’s concerns, noting that since seismic activity near Santorini has decreased, residents anticipate this season operating “as close to normal as possible.”
We aim to ensure that both our residents and guests in Santorini feel secure and have an enjoyable experience on the island.
As schools have already reopened, and with Santorini getting ready to host returning tourists once more, here are some essential experiences not to be missed on the island.
Absorb the views in renowned Fira
While Athens boasts intelligence and Sparta relies on strength,
Santorini
embodies the essence of Greece’s allure.
Featuring its chalk-white walls, captivating twilight scenes, and vivid azure waters, the place is enchanting.
Greek island
is definitely eye-catching, but there’s more to this haven than meets the eye.
The primary town in Santorini buzzes with energy, filled with eateries, pubs, nightclubs, and coffee shops everywhere you look. Known for its dazzling whitewashed structures crowned by striking blue domes, Fira epitomizes this charm.
postcard-perfect Santorini scene
– stunning architecture, sweeping vistas, and cascading bougainvillea.
Enjoy the sun as you stroll through the narrow cobblestone alleys, or relax at one of the numerous sidewalk cafes and observe the bustling activity around you. To delve into history, visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera to admire remarkable artifacts unearthed from Akrotiri, inhabited since prehistoric eras.
Proceed from this point towards the rim of Fira’s caldera, where the imposing Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral soars gracefully against the azure sky.
Constructed in 1827, the cathedral suffered significant damage during an enormous earthquake in 1956. However, soon afterward, it underwent a stunning restoration featuring elaborate mosaics, a grandiose bell tower, and impressive sweeping arches. Within its walls, visitors can appreciate exquisite frescoes inside, created by the talented local artist Christoforos Asimis.
Experience the beautiful outdoors at Santorini’s dark sandy beaches.
No trip to Santorini feels complete without experiencing one of the globe’s most breathtaking sunset vistas. To enjoy these spectacular sights, make your way to the historic remains of the Byzantine castle in the picturesque and bustling town.
Oia
.
Starting from this spot, you’ll ascend to an optimal vantage point where you can also explore remnants of Oia’s history within the dilapidated fortress ruins. Arrive ahead of time to secure a choice location before the masses gather and prepare yourself for nature’s star performance.
Apart from sunsets, Santorini is also renowned for its
black sand
Beaches shaped over time by volcanic processes can be found here. At the foot of Mesa Vouno Mountain lies Perissa Beach, which stretches as Santorini’s longest stretch of black sand. It boasts clear waters and a lively ambiance.
This area features cozy sun loungers, various watersports activities, cafes, and a water park equipped with three slides along with swimming pools suitable for everyone in your family. Towards the end of the beach, there’s a raised platform frequently used by divers jumping into the sea beneath it.
To continue your
outdoor adventure
, embark on a guided hike through the ash-covered terrain of Santorini’s active volcano in the centre of the caldera.
Nea Kameni, the youngest of the two volcanoes, is a must-visit for its stunning sulphur-infused waters and healing hot springs. As you trek up the black lava perimeters, you’ll encounter the crater and vents releasing sulphur steam, which offer a unique wellness experience.
The
hike
Additionally, you will be rewarded with spectacular vistas of Santorini’s cliffs along with the charming villages of Oia and Fira. To escape the strong daytime heat, begin at dawn or schedule your walk to coincide with the sunset for a magical sight.
Get off-the-beaten-track in Thirasia
Thirasia is a vestige of Santorini’s former glory, situated on the western edge of the caldera. This place attracts minimal tourist traffic, enabling visitors to discover its small bays and majestic hills without disturbance.
The top method to discover the secluded shores is by
half-abandoned villages
It can be done by motorbike or on foot, although you’ll have to take a ten-minute water taxi from the Ammoudi harbor to get to its shores.
Unlike its neighbor’s vibrant bars and busy stores, Thirasia has remained mostly untouched by development and is referred to by locals as “Santorini from 50 years ago.”
Sample locally-grown Greek cuisine
From classic tavernas to global
fine dining
Food enthusiasts can discover Santorini eateries offering dishes that span from local seafood to Japanese cuisine like sushi.
To truly experience the essence of the island, choose local flavors paired with Greek wines. Santorini is renowned for its refreshing dry white wines and the honey-colored dessert wine called Vinsanto, crafted from the native assyrtiko grapes.
Explore the nearby vineyards that provide guided tours and wine tasting sessions – several of them also create pairings featuring produce cultivated locally on the island.
To gain insights from experts, sign up for a cooking course such as the Petra Kouzina Cooking Experience, where you’ll have the opportunity to practice preparing various dishes.
Greek dishes
Before joining them for a shared dinner on the patio.
