Choose from 29 Fun Things to Do in Cyclades Islands
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Santorini Cruise Port
One of the most memorable places in Greece, the volcanic island of Santorini - located in the Cyclades group - is a spectacular Mediterranean paradise known for its dazzling views, fine beaches and unforgettable sunsets. Without much need for modern amenities, the place is lined with historic sights, and more than enough natural and ancient wonderment to go around. It's no wonder why so many people love Santorini.
How to Get to Santorini
There are a few ways to get into Santorini, either by land or sea, depending on your budget and how much time you have to explore. By air, there is Santorini National Airport, which during the summer months flies directly to several destinations in Europe. If the water highway is your transportation method of choice, you can either grab a ferry from domestic locations in Naxos, Paros, or more commonly Piraeus. Big cruises will reach Santorini through the old port in Fira (take note: not the newer one located just 2 miles away in Pyrgos).
One Day in Santorini
Choosing what do here will be difficult to muss up. If you're looking for the historical route, the 3,500-year-old Minoan town of Akrontiri, and ancient Thira monastery are the way to go. Otherwise, for a little R&R there are more beaches than you'll know what to do with. Take a trip to the red, black or white beaches, or for a less crowded experience head to Vlichada Beach.
Port Information
The Old Port in Fira is designated specifically for cruise liners and, interestingly enough, if you do happen to arrive in Santorini by this means, the only way you will be able to get into town is by cable car or donkey. Otherwise, a smaller ferry is available to transfer you to the other port at Pyrgos. Feel free to get some shopping done at the harbor of the old port where you can buy souvenirs and other nice Greek trinkets.
How to Get to Santorini
There are a few ways to get into Santorini, either by land or sea, depending on your budget and how much time you have to explore. By air, there is Santorini National Airport, which during the summer months flies directly to several destinations in Europe. If the water highway is your transportation method of choice, you can either grab a ferry from domestic locations in Naxos, Paros, or more commonly Piraeus. Big cruises will reach Santorini through the old port in Fira (take note: not the newer one located just 2 miles away in Pyrgos).
One Day in Santorini
Choosing what do here will be difficult to muss up. If you're looking for the historical route, the 3,500-year-old Minoan town of Akrontiri, and ancient Thira monastery are the way to go. Otherwise, for a little R&R there are more beaches than you'll know what to do with. Take a trip to the red, black or white beaches, or for a less crowded experience head to Vlichada Beach.
Port Information
The Old Port in Fira is designated specifically for cruise liners and, interestingly enough, if you do happen to arrive in Santorini by this means, the only way you will be able to get into town is by cable car or donkey. Otherwise, a smaller ferry is available to transfer you to the other port at Pyrgos. Feel free to get some shopping done at the harbor of the old port where you can buy souvenirs and other nice Greek trinkets.
Address: Aktoploiki Grammi, Fira, Santorini Island 84700, Greece
From $ 12
Santorini Hot Springs
Santorini’s hot springs are on the tiny, uninhabited islet of Palea Kameni. Continuous volcanic activity underground maintains the springs’ temperature between 86ºF and 95ºF (30°C and 35°C). The sulfuric, orange-tinged spring waters that bubble up into a shallow cove off the islet’s coast are said to be curative for the skin and joints.
The Basics
Most visitors reach the hot springs by way of a boat tour departing from the town of Oia or the Old Port—which sits beneath the town of Fira—on the main Greek island of Santorini. Tours may also stop on neighboring Nea Kameni, where you can hike up to the active volcano for panoramic views across lava fields to the Aegean Sea, and on Thirasia, the second-largest island in the archipelago. Boat trips to the springs moor in the rocky inlet at Erinia, and from there it is a short swim to the shallow, orange-streaked water overlooked by the tiny whitewashed church of Agios Nikolaos and bordered by vast lava boulders. For a more private experience, you can opt for a small-group catamaran tour or a romantic sunset cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The distinctive sulfuric odor of the hot springs can persist for some time after a swim, and the rust-colored water may stain light-colored swimwear.
- Don’t forget a hat, sunblock, and plenty of water to stave off the Mediterranean heat.
- Boat tour passengers must be agile enough to board and disembark boats, so travelers with limited mobility should confirm accessibility before booking.
- The hot springs are accessible only by taking a short swim, so are not recommended for young children or those who are not confident in the water.
How to Get There
You can reach the hot springs on Palea Kameni (also called Palia Kameni), just off the coast of the larger volcanic island of Nea Kameni, by boat on a private tour or a larger group cruise departing from Santorini.
When to Get There
The Santorini hot springs are most crowded in summer, but some days in late spring and early fall are warm enough to take a soak in the hot springs without having to share them with the summer crowds.
The Santorini Volcano
The massive explosion of what is now known as the Santorini volcano around the 16th or 17th century BC formed the enormous, water-filled caldera around which the dramatic Santorini archipelago is grouped. Repeated volcanic eruptions of ash and lava over the millennia have formed the Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni islands, now popular destinations for tour boats ferrying visitors to the active crater for a volcano tour and to the nearby hot springs.
Address: Palia Kameni, Oia, Santorini, Cyclades Islands 847 00, Greece
Hours: Daily
From $ 77
Fira
With gleaming white-and-blue buildings perched on a clifftop overlooking the glittering Aegean Sea, Fira (or Thera) is every bit the postcard star of Santorini. The island capital, the main port of call for holidaymakers, is famous for its stunning views, lively nightlife, and archaeological museums.
The Basics
Fira is the starting point for Santorini shore excursions, and there are ample options for day trips, with the coastal town of Oia, the archaeological site of ancient Akrotiri, and the Akrotiri lighthouse all just a short drive away. Boat tours also set sail across the caldera from Fira, cruising around the volcanic islands of Palea and Nea Kameni and often stopping for swimming and snorkeling breaks.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wi-Fi and cell phone service can be patchy on Santorini, so check in advance with your hotel or tour provider.
- Temperatures can climb above 30°C (86°F) in summer, so be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat.
- Some boat cruises, hotels, and ferries are wheelchair accessible"”check in advance.
How to Get There
Fira is on the west coast of Santorini, 6.5 miles (11 kilometers) south of Oia, about 25 minutes by bus or taxi from the island's airport. Cruise ships will either dock at the New Port, a short bus ride away, or at the Old Port, which is directly below the town at the foot of the cliff. You can acsend by cable car, on foot (via 588 steps), and even by donkey.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit Fira is in summer, when sunny weather and warm waters make for a perfect beach vacation; at that time, tours, ferries, and accommodation book up quickly, so book in advance. If you're visiting in winter, check ahead to be sure hotels and attractions are open, and be prepared for cooler weather and some rainy days.
A walking tour of Fira
Fira's small size makes it easy to get around on foot; the town's small center is full of handicrafts shops, family-run cafes, and traditional Greek restaurants. Visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thira to discover the ancient wonders of Akrotiri, then learn more about Santorini's history at the Santorini Archaeological Museum. After exploring the museums, walk down to the Old Port, visit the 19th-century Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, or head to the Santos Winery for a tasting. In the evening, make your way to one of the seafront bars to sip cocktails as you watch one of Santorini's famous sunsets.
Address: Greece
From $ 174
White Beach
Tucked away on the south coast of Santorini in the next cove to Red Beach, White Beach (Aspri Paralia) is sheltered by soaring chalk-and-grey cliffs and usually accessed by boat from Akrotíri. This minuscule strand is actually composed of coarse black – not white – sand, and liberally peppered with grey and white pebbles as well as massive white volcanic boulders. Underwater caves and rocky formations along the shoreline make the beach an excellent choice for snorkelers.
Thanks to its circlet of overhanging cliffs, White Beach is reasonably isolated and hard to access so is consequently often very quiet, making it a perfect spot for those who love their sunbathing without the crowds. However, there are few facilities except sun beds and parasols for hire, so take water, food and sun tan lotion when visiting.
Practical Info
Take the ferry from Akrotíri harbor to get to White Beach; it is not accessible from inland, but can be reached by a westwards walk and a scramble through the sea from neighboring Red Beach. Always wear shoes when walking on the pebble beach as it can get unbearably hot underfoot.
Address: Santorini, Greece
From $ 110
Thirassia
The little island of Thirassia has a population of only 200 or so, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing lunch at a cliff-top taverna, with views over to Santorini. The island used to be part of Santorini’s mainland, until the violent volcanic eruption of 1650 BC set it free.
Sail over from Santorini to escape the crowds on Thirassia’s lovely beaches, and bring a traveler’s dictionary as not many people here speak English. Those tavernas are clustered in the village of Manolas, near the ferry stop, and the tranquil island also has scattered blue-domed churches, ancient monasteries and stone villages
Sail over from Santorini to escape the crowds on Thirassia’s lovely beaches, and bring a traveler’s dictionary as not many people here speak English. Those tavernas are clustered in the village of Manolas, near the ferry stop, and the tranquil island also has scattered blue-domed churches, ancient monasteries and stone villages
Practical Info
The island of Thirassia lies west of Santorini, across the caldera on the other side of Nea Kameni. Some ferries run to Thirassia’s ports of Riva and Korfos from Athinios on Santorini’s central west coast, and from Ammoudi on its northern tip. As ferry schedules are unreliable, most visitors come via excursion boat, sailing via Nea Kameni along the way.
Address: Greece
From $ 110
Pyrgos
Pyrgos is a picturesque hillside village set on a volcanic crater at the highest point of the Greece’s Santorini, offering panoramic views of the rest of the island. At the top of the village sit the ruins of Kasteli Castle, remnants of the former capitol of the island before it was moved to Fira (where it remains today.)
Pyrgos is as beautiful as the rest of the island, but also has a special historic charm — with traditional white houses, Byzantine churches, Cycladic architecture, and small winding cobblestone lanes and paths. Some of the churches has beautiful old frescoes visible on the walls. The area sees far fewer tourists than the rest of the island, so it keeps a peaceful atmosphere. Though the town has merely 700 inhabitants, there are tavernas and local restaurants. Visiting the village is a way to experience the traditionally preserved culture of the Greek islands.
Pyrgos is as beautiful as the rest of the island, but also has a special historic charm — with traditional white houses, Byzantine churches, Cycladic architecture, and small winding cobblestone lanes and paths. Some of the churches has beautiful old frescoes visible on the walls. The area sees far fewer tourists than the rest of the island, so it keeps a peaceful atmosphere. Though the town has merely 700 inhabitants, there are tavernas and local restaurants. Visiting the village is a way to experience the traditionally preserved culture of the Greek islands.
Practical Info
Pyrgos is only few kilometers south of Fira, though it is best approached by car due to the steep location.
Address: Santorini, Greece, Greece
From $ 58
Red Beach
Santorini’s Red Beach is not your average white-sand beauty. Rather, it’s a narrow, pebbly stretch hemmed in by high scarlet cliffs and scattered with large volcanic rocks. Together with the sapphire blue waters of the Aegean Sea, these volcanic features create a striking natural color palette that draws photographers to its shores.
The Basics
While Red Beach is a popular swimming and sunbathing spot, it can also be a dangerous one, with occasional landslides and falling rocks. Because of this, many visitors prefer to admire the beach from afar, either from the parking area overlooking the beach or from the sea itself.
Many catamaran cruises, some of which include meals and drinks on board, and kayaking tours travel by the beach. Some Santorini day tours combine a visit to the beach with a stop at the nearby ancient Akrotiri archaeological site, an excavated Minoan settlement dating back to the Bronze Age.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With its unusual colorful appearance, Red Beach is a must for photographers.
- Bring along sunscreen, water, and a picnic to enjoy while soaking up views of the beach.
- Red Beach can only be accessed via a steep trail, and the beach’s surface is rocky, meaning it is not suitable for wheelchair users. The beach can, however, be clearly seen from the parking lot.
How to Get There
Red Beach is situated on the Akrotiri Peninsula in southwest Santorini. It’s about a 25-minute drive from Fira and offers free though limited parking. A steep access trail leads from the parking lot to the beach. Car-free travelers can take the KTEL bus from Fira to Akrotiri and make the short walk from there.
When to Get There
Despite the dangers of loose, falling rocks, Red Beach still attracts a lot of sunbathers and from June through September is often crowded. The red of the beach’s cliffs and rocks is most vivid at sunset.
Beaches on Santorini
Santorini’s volcanic topography has resulted in a range of visually diverse beaches. Contrasting with the intense color of neighboring Red Beach is remote White Beach, which is backed by light-colored cliffs and can only be accessed by boat. For a family-friendly option with ample facilities including restaurants, water-sports operators, sun loungers, and umbrellas, try Monolithos Beach on the island’s east coast. Black-sand Perivolos Beach, on the southeast coast of the island, is another popular choice, attracting a lively, youthful crowd.
Address: Santorini, Greece
From $ 64
Santorini Volcano
The “Santorini volcano” may refer to two different peaks: the first, Thira, exploded around 1600 BC and ended the thriving Minoan civilization and may have spawned the legend of Atlantis. Millennia of eruptions formed the second “Santorini volcano”—the island of Nea Kameni, drawing visitors eager to hike to the rim of its active crater.
The Basics
Most visitors reach the active volcano on Nea Kameni, whose crater continues to rumble and puff out steam, by way of a boat tour departing from the town of Oia, the Old Port of Fira, or the Athinios port on Santorini’s main island. Once on the island, you can hike up to the crater’s rim and take in the views across lava fields to Greece’s Aegean Sea. Volcano tours may also stop on Thirasia, the second-largest island in the archipelago, and at the hot springs on Palea Kameni, where boats moor at Erinia and you can swim to the springs beneath the tiny church of Agios Nikolaos. Boat trips can get crowded in high season, so opt for a small-group guided tour or catamaran tour if you would prefer a more personal experience.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you plan to walk to the crater’s rim, be sure to wear hiking-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes.
- Don't forget a hat, sunblock, and plenty of water to guard against the Mediterranean heat.
- Boat tour passengers must be agile enough to board and disembark boats, so travelers with limited mobility should confirm accessibility before booking.
- Visiting the volcano requires about 30 minutes of uphill hiking, so may not be suitable for young children or those who are not strong walkers.
How to Get There
You can reach the volcano on Nea Kameni by boat on a private tour or a larger group cruise departing from Santorini.
When to Get There
Santorini volcano tours are most crowded in summer, when it can also be uncomfortably hot during the peak hours of the day. Opt for an early morning or late afternoon departure, or plan your visit for the spring or fall.
Santorini Sunsets
Santorini boasts gorgeous sunsets, and the archipelago has the Thira volcano to thank. Its cataclysmic eruption scooped out the once-circular island’s center and west coast, creating the sea-filled caldera ringed by the sheer cliffs of the Santorini archipelago’s main island. Today the caldera provides a low-lying, obstruction-free observation point along Santorini’s west coast, perfect for watching the sun sink into the sea. Consider booking a romantic sunset tour by boat in the late afternoon to savor this famous sunset.
Address: Greece
From $ 107
Skaros Rock
Looming 20 meters high at the tip of a rocky promontory, the Skaros Rock is one of Santorini’s most memorable natural landmarks and its silhouette is so striking it can be seen from towns like Fira and Oia. The seafront cliff, sculpted from black lava rock, offers the perfect vantage point for looking out across the Aegean Sea and it’s an idyllic spot to watch the sunset, with views over the caldera and Kameni islands.
To visit Skaros Rock, follow the trail from Imerovigli village, then either climb the steps to the top of the rock or take the path around the base of the rock. Along the way, stop to visit the whitewashed chapel of Ekklisia Theoskepasti nearby, a remnant of Skaros’ early Catholic settlement, then explore the ruins of the Byzantine fortress that once stood on the peak.
Practical Info
Skaros Rock is located in Imerovigli, around 3km north of Fira on Santorini Island.
Address: Imerovigli, Greece
From $ 93