The most beautiful island on the planet for many is Santorini in 2024. It is Europe’s most enchanting summer destination. Santorini’s fame is so absolute, that when you finally land in its port, you don’t know what to see first and which corners to explore to feel its intoxicating charm that makes all the tourist guides speechless. And here we come, to condense the entire experience of a trip to Thira, in ten essential steps around the Caldera.
The sunset in Oia
Even if you are not among the romantics of this world, it is impossible not to be seduced by this mysterious force that almost hypnotizes the crowd in the alleys of Oia when the clock approaches sunset time. Then, a huge demonstration with hats, cameras, and the smell of sunscreen instead of banners and hoods, moves towards the edge of Oia at the Kastelli of Agios Georgios, where you just stare open-mouthed at the sun dipping into the Caldera and the people watching it. he applauds. However, if you are looking for a similar spectacle with fewer spectators, other amazing spots on the island to see the sunset are the peak of the prophet Ilias, the hill of ancient Thira, the Lighthouse, the castle of Pyrgos, and the beach of Vlychada.
The unreal beaches
You have probably heard that Santorini is not famous for its beaches. Don’t pay attention to the rumors so you don’t arrive with your towel in a negative mood: You may not see turquoise waters and golden sands, but you will see other exotic things. In Vlychada, the sandy beach has as a background rare geological formations, which look like they were taken from a lunar landscape, on which you can climb.
At the rugged Red Beach, you’ll swim in waters that touch a salt sand beach, with purple, almost earth-like, otherworldly sand. In Kamari, Perissa, or the rest of the eastern coasts of the island, you will be able to stretch your legs against the background of the large pebbles and black sand of the island, a result of the volcanic activity. There you will also find the cheapest organized beaches, as the sunbed is not charged on this side of Thira. Delightful, alternative, and even more picturesque are the dives in Ammoudi, the small port below Oia.
Overnight in Fira
The day belongs to the beaches, the sunset time belongs to Oia, and the evening rightfully belongs to Fira, the lively capital of the island that not only has beautiful cave houses on the side of the Caldera but also a multitude of bars, restaurants, taverns, fast food and squares, which “buzz” pleasantly all night long.
The villages of Santorini in 2024
The villages of the Caldera naturally have the first say. The major walks follow the stone-built paths in Fira and Oia, with the characteristic all-white houses on the rock, the tufted bougainvillea and the unbeatable view. Oia in particular is a special experience, which is not at all bothered by the swarms of tourists – as long as you are there, in front of it, in the disarming beauty that you hardly realize is real and that it is inhabited by people. Between Fira and Oia, you will find two other “homes” of Cycladic luxury and picturesqueness, Imerovigli and Firostefani.
As for the rest of the island of Santorini, you will walk to the quiet settlement of Karterados, where it is possible to have a traditional feast with the windmill in the background, you will climb the Castle of Pyrgos and Emporio, you will admire the island churches of Vothona, the wineries of Foinikia and the view from Exo Gonia or Megalochori.
For those with reserves of energy and adrenaline, the walking route along the Caldera, which connects the villages of Fira, Imerovigli, and Oia, is recommended (you will need about three hours for the nine kilometers of a breathtaking route). Underwater, diving enthusiasts will love the sites of Trypiti and Palaia Kammeni, near the wreck of Taxiarchis, while near Akrotiri you will dive at the reef of Adiavati. Finally, Mesa Pigadia is suitable for exploring caves.
The archaeological treasures
The archaeological heart of Thira beats in Akrotiri, the ancient settlement from which frescoes, works of art and the ruins of a well-planned city with multi-level buildings, a water system, furnitures and all these have been well preserved after the Minoan earthquake that buried them have been saved. No human skeleton was found in Akrotiri, an element that advocates for the theory that there were warning earthquakes that prompted the residents to evacuate en masse. At an altitude of 396 meters stand the findings of ancient Thera in Mesa Vounos, with ruins from the Hellenistic period. Finally, in Fira, you will find the Museum of Prehistoric Thira and the Archaeological Museum, with sculptures, inscriptions, ceramics, kouros, and findings from Akrotiri and other parts of the island.
The wine
The special soil and climate of Santorini was… fertile ground for the Cycladic winegrowers, who endowed the island with a heavy tradition in winemaking. White Assyrtiko is the “ruler” of Santorini’s wine production, while Athiri and Aidani follow. The famous local wine Vinsanto is an experience for the taste buds in itself – you can try it in traditional wineries or in larger establishments. Take a private wine tour in Santorini in 2024.
More of What Not to Miss in Santorini in 2024
The steps above, from the Oia sunset and the unreal beaches to the villages, the archaeological treasures and the wine, are the heart of any visit. The island has more to offer, and this section completes the list of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024, with practical advice for each experience.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 at sea. The volcano, the hot springs, a caldera cruise and the quiet island of Thirasia.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 on foot. The caldera path, Skaros Rock and the climb to Profitis Ilias.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 at the table. Island food, seafood by the water and a cooking class.
Each entry explains what makes it special, how long to allow and when to go.
Oia in the Morning
The article above describes the crowd that gathers in Oia at sunset. Seeing the village at dawn is one of the quieter answers to what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 at dawn: empty lanes. Before the tour groups arrive, the marble streets, blue domes and white houses are quiet and softly lit.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 in Oia: the castle. The ruins at the western tip of the village, packed at sunset, are almost empty in the morning.
The Maritime Museum. A small museum in a restored mansion tells the story of Oia’s sea captains and shipowners.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 for photographers. Soft morning light and no crowds make this the best time for pictures.
The captains’ houses. Grand 19th-century mansions line the main lane, in contrast to the simple cave houses of the sailors.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024: respect. Many rooftops belong to hotels and homes; do not climb onto private property for a photograph.
Firostefani and the Three Bells
Between Fira and Imerovigli, as the article above describes, Firostefani is one of the homes of Cycladic luxury and picturesqueness. Its viewpoints belong on the list of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 in Firostefani: the Three Bells. Just below the path from Fira stands the blue-domed church often called the Three Bells of Fira, one of the island’s best-known views.
The village. Small squares, relaxed tavernas and wide views over the volcano, a short walk from the capital.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 at dusk. The walk from Fira to Firostefani at sunset, as the lights of the villages come on along the rim.
Dinner. Firostefani’s tavernas are usually calmer than those in the centre of Fira, with the same views.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024: tip. Photograph the Three Bells in the morning light from the path above.
A Closer Look at Imerovigli and Skaros
The article above describes Imerovigli as one of the homes of Cycladic luxury and picturesqueness between Fira and Oia. Its rock and viewpoints are firmly on the list of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 in Imerovigli: the view. At the highest point of the caldera rim, around 300 metres above the sea, the village looks across the volcano to Thirasia.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024: Skaros Rock. Below the village rises the great rock that once held the island’s medieval capital, a fortified settlement protected by the cliffs. A stepped path leads to its base in around 20 to 30 minutes.
Theoskepasti. A narrow ledge path continues around the rock to a small white chapel above the sea. It is exposed; avoid it in strong wind.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 at sunset in Imerovigli. The sun sets behind Skaros with far fewer people than in Oia, and the terraces along the path are ideal for a drink or dinner.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024: timing. Walk to Skaros early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and save energy and water for the climb back up the steps.
The Volcano and the Hot Springs
The caldera described above was formed by the volcano, and walking on it is high on the list of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
Nea Kameni. The youngest island in the caldera, built by eruptions from the 18th century onwards, with the most recent in 1950. A marked path crosses black lava and gravel to the crater area, around an hour up and down.
What you see. Craters, lava fields, steam vents and yellow sulphur deposits, with views back to the white villages on the cliffs.
Palea Kameni. As the article above mentions for divers, the older island lies nearby. In one of its bays, warm iron-rich water rises into the sea; boats anchor and passengers swim to the springs.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 by boat: how long. Excursions last half a day or a full day, often with lunch on Thirasia.
Tips. Choose a morning departure in summer, wear closed shoes for the lava and an old swimsuit for the springs.
A Caldera Cruise
Seeing the cliffs from the water is one of the essential experiences on any list of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
Catamaran cruises. Shared or private catamarans sail from the south coast, stopping at the Red and White beaches and quiet bays for swimming, usually with a meal on board.
The view. From the sea you see the full height of the cliffs, the coloured layers of volcanic rock and the villages strung along the rim.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 at sunset. Evening cruises end with the sun sinking behind Thirasia, away from the crowds in Oia.
Private boats. A private charter lets you choose your route and swimming stops.
Practical notes. The summer wind can make the sea rough and cancel trips. Keep a flexible day and bring a light layer.
The Caldera Walk in Detail
The article above recommends the walking route along the caldera, about nine kilometres and three hours. It deserves a closer look, as it is one of the highlights of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
The route. From Fira through Firostefani and Imerovigli, then over open ground past small chapels to Oia. Allow three to five hours with stops.
The views. The whole caldera below you: Nea and Palea Kameni, Thirasia and the cliffs dropping hundreds of metres to the sea.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 on the way: Skaros. A detour from Imerovigli leads to the rock that held the island’s medieval capital and the chapel of Theoskepasti above the sea.
When to go. Start early in summer, as the second half has little shade. Spring and autumn are ideal.
What to carry. Plenty of water, sun protection and proper walking shoes.
The finish. Arrive in Oia for the sunset, then take a bus, taxi or transfer back.
Ammoudi Below Oia
As the article above says, the dives at Ammoudi, the small port below Oia, are delightful and picturesque. A visit is firmly on the list of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
The harbour. Fish tavernas line the water, colourful boats bob in the bay and red volcanic rock rises behind.
The swim. A path along the rocks leads to the islet of Agios Nikolaos, where strong swimmers jump into deep, clear water. Check the depth and never jump alone.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 for lunch. Fresh fish by the water, with a view across the caldera to Thirasia.
Getting there. Walk down the steps from Oia or drive down the road; the climb back is steep.
Boats. Small boats leave from Ammoudi for Thirasia across the caldera.
Thirasia
Across the caldera from Oia lies Thirasia, the quiet island once joined to Santorini. A day there is one of the more peaceful entries in what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
Korfos. The small harbour where boats land, with fish tavernas at the water’s edge.
Manolas. The main village, reached by steps from Korfos, sits on the caldera rim and looks straight across at Oia and Fira.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 from the other side. From Manolas, the line of white villages on the Santorini cliffs is one of the finest views in the Cyclades.
The pace. Few cars, few shops and almost no crowds.
Getting there. Small boats from Ammoudi, or a stop on many volcano excursions.
A Closer Look at Akrotiri
The article above calls Akrotiri the archaeological heart of Thira. A visit is essential on any list of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 at Akrotiri: the town. Multi-storey houses, streets, squares and storerooms still holding their jars, preserved under volcanic ash for more than three thousand years.
The frescoes. As the article notes, the site produced remarkable wall paintings, now displayed at the Museum of Prehistoric Thira in Fira.
The mystery. No human skeletons were found, suggesting the inhabitants evacuated before the eruption.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 with a guide. A guide explains what each building was used for and how the town was rediscovered.
The shelter. A large roof protects the site, making it comfortable on hot or rainy days.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024: timing. Arrive at opening time, then continue to the Red Beach viewpoint and a seaside lunch.
A Closer Look at Ancient Thera
The article above mentions the ruins of ancient Thera on Mesa Vouno. The climb to the ridge is one of the most rewarding items in what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 on the ridge: the city. Founded by Dorian settlers around the 9th century BC and inhabited into Byzantine times, with houses, temples, a theatre and an agora spread along the ridge.
The views. From the top you look down on Kamari on one side and Perissa on the other, with the open Aegean beyond.
Getting there. A winding road climbs from Kamari to a car park below the site; fit walkers can hike up from Perissa.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024: opening hours. Shorter than at Akrotiri and variable by season; check before you go.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 afterwards. A swim at Kamari and lunch on the seafront promenade.
Diving and Snorkelling
The article above lists the dive sites of Trypiti, Palea Kameni near the wreck of Taxiarchis, the reef of Adiavati near Akrotiri and the caves of Mesa Pigadia. Exploring underwater is one of the more unusual answers to what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
Diving. Dive centres offer courses and guided dives for beginners and certified divers, including along the steep caldera walls.
Snorkelling. Dark volcanic rock, underwater caves and clear water make the south coast and caldera bays rewarding with just a mask.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 underwater: the caves. Mesa Pigadia, as the article notes, is suitable for exploring caves.
Sea kayaking. Guided trips along the south coast pass sea caves and quiet coves.
Safety. Choose licensed operators and check the wind forecast.
A Closer Look at the Beaches
As the article above says, don’t listen to the rumours about Santorini’s beaches. Their volcanic colours make them a memorable part of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 at Vlychada. Pale, wind-sculpted cliffs like a lunar landscape above a long beach.
The Red Beach. A dramatic red cliff above the sand. Access is sometimes restricted because of rockfalls; respect the signs.
The White Beach. Pale cliffs above a small cove, reached only by boat.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 on the east coast. Kamari and Perissa, with long stretches of dark sand and plenty of facilities.
Beach tips. The dark sand gets very hot, so bring beach shoes; the south coast is often calmer when the north wind blows.
More detail. See our page on the beaches of Santorini worth swimming.
Island Food
Alongside the wines described above, the island’s food is one of the tastiest parts of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
Fava. A creamy purée of yellow split peas grown on the island, served with olive oil, onion and capers.
Tomatokeftedes. Fritters made from the small, intense Santorini tomato, grown without irrigation.
White aubergine and chloro cheese. Local specialities worth looking for in village tavernas.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 by the sea. Fresh fish in Ammoudi, Vlychada or on Thirasia. Ask the price per kilo before ordering.
A cooking class. Learn to prepare local dishes, then eat them with island wine.
A traditional feast. As the article above suggests, Karterados is a place where you can enjoy a traditional feast with the windmill in the background.
A Closer Look at the Wineries
The article above calls Assyrtiko the ruler of Santorini’s wine production. A tasting among the vineyards is one of the pleasures of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 in a glass: Assyrtiko. Crisp, mineral white wine from the island’s signature grape.
Vinsanto. The traditional sweet wine, made from sun-dried grapes and aged for years in barrels.
The kouloura. The vines are trained low into circular baskets to protect the grapes from wind and sun.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 at sunset: winery terraces. Several wineries have terraces over the caldera, perfect for an evening tasting.
Traditional and modern. As the article says, try Vinsanto in traditional wineries or larger establishments, from old rock-cut cellars to modern tasting rooms.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 safely. Book a tour with transport rather than driving after tasting.
Profitis Ilias and Pyrgos
The article above names the peak of Profitis Ilias and the castle of Pyrgos as quieter sunset spots. Together they are one of the best-kept secrets of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
Pyrgos. Built in circles around the hill of an old castle, with narrow lanes, dozens of churches and views over both coasts.
Profitis Ilias. The island’s highest point, at around 560 metres, with an 18th-century monastery near the summit and the whole island spread out below.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 at sunset in Pyrgos. A terrace near the top of the village gives the sunset over the whole island, with far fewer people than Oia.
Easter. On Good Friday, Pyrgos is lit with thousands of small fires and lanterns as the Epitaph procession passes, one of the most moving sights in Greece.
Getting there. About 10 minutes by car from Fira; a road and a walking path lead up to Profitis Ilias.
The Akrotiri Lighthouse
The article above mentions the Lighthouse as a quieter sunset spot. At the island’s south-western tip, it is one of the most atmospheric places in what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
The lighthouse. Built in the late 19th century, it is one of the oldest in the Cyclades. The building is usually closed, but the headland is open.
The view. The sun sinks into the open sea beyond the cliffs, with the whole caldera stretching away to the north.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 in the south. Combine the lighthouse with Akrotiri, the Red Beach and a winery for a full day.
Safety. The cliffs have no railings. Stay well back from the edge.
Parking. Space is limited; arrive early.
The Old Port and the Cable Car
Below Fira, the Old Port is where cruise passengers land and many boat trips begin. Getting down and back up is a classic part of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
The cable car. The quickest way between Fira and the port, a ride of three to five minutes with views across the caldera.
The steps. A zigzag path of around 588 steps links the port and the town. Walking down is easy; walking up in summer is hot and tiring.
The mules. Their welfare has been widely criticised. We recommend walking or taking the cable car.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 on cruise days. Queues for the cable car can be long in the afternoon; go down early and come back before the rush.
More detail. See our page on the Santorini cable car.
Megalochori, Emporio and the Southern Villages
The article above lists the Castle of Emporio and the view from Megalochori among the quieter villages. They are an essential part of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024 for anyone who wants to see island life.
Megalochori. Old mansions, wine cellars and a shaded square, with a much-photographed bell tower on the edge of the caldera.
Emporio. The island’s largest village, with a medieval kasteli of narrow passages and tall houses built as a defence against pirates.
Vothonas. As the article mentions, its churches are carved into the rock of a ravine.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 inland: Exo Gonia. A village built on a slope with views over the vineyards and the sea.
Timing. Visit in the morning or late afternoon, when the lanes are cool and quiet.
Karterados, Vothonas and Foinikia
The article above sends visitors to quiet Karterados, the rock churches of Vothonas and the wineries of Foinikia. These quieter corners add depth to what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 in Karterados. A traditional village of cave houses and cobbled lanes just outside Fira, with a windmill on the edge of the village.
Vothonas. Built along a ravine, with houses and churches carved into its walls; from above you see only doorways, domes and chimneys.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 in Foinikia. A colourful village just outside Oia, with wineries nearby and a calm atmosphere even in summer.
The cave houses. Called yposkafa, they were dug into the soft volcanic rock so that their thick walls would keep them cool in summer and warm in winter.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024: respect. These are lived-in villages. Walk quietly, respect residents’ privacy and finish with lunch in a village taverna.
For Couples and Families
Different travellers enjoy the island in different ways. These are the highlights of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024 for couples and for families.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 for couples. A dawn walk in Oia, a private sunset cruise, a winery terrace at golden hour and a dinner with a view in Imerovigli or Firostefani.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 for families. The volcano walk, the warm springs, the boat trip and the story of Akrotiri, with beach afternoons at Kamari or Perissa.
Where families stay. Beach resorts are easier with young children than caldera hotels with many steps.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 for walkers. The caldera path, Skaros Rock and the climb to Profitis Ilias.
Safety. Many viewpoints have no railings. Hold young children’s hands near cliff edges.
When to Go
The season shapes every item on the list of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024.
Spring. April and May bring mild weather, green hillsides and wild flowers, ideal for walking. The sea is still cool.
Summer. June to August has everything open, a warm sea and long evenings, but also the most heat, crowds and highest prices.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 in autumn. September and October bring warm sea, softer heat and fewer crowds, many visitors’ favourite time.
Winter. Quiet and local, with many hotels, restaurants and boats closed.
Our advice. Late May, June, September and early October give the best balance.
Where to Stay and How to Get Around
Your base and transport decide how much of what not to miss in Santorini in 2024 you can fit into each day.
Fira. As the article above says, the evening belongs to Fira. It is the most practical base, with the most restaurants and the best transport links.
Imerovigli and Firostefani. Quieter caldera villages with superb views and an easy walk to Fira.
Oia. The most romantic setting, magical in the morning and evening but crowded at sunset.
Kamari and Perissa. Beach resorts with better value; as the article notes, the organised beaches on this side of the island are the cheapest.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2024 without a car. Buses link Fira with most villages and beaches, but they are crowded in summer; taxis are scarce.
Private tours. A local driver-guide handles the roads, parking and timing.
Packing and Practical Tips
A little preparation makes every day on the island easier.
Shoes. Comfortable walking shoes with grip for the caldera path, the volcano and the village steps, plus beach shoes for the hot dark sand.
Sun protection. Hat, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen; the sun is strong from spring to autumn.
Layers. A light jacket for windy evenings on the caldera and on boats, even in summer.
Swimwear. Include an old swimsuit for the iron-rich hot springs.
Water. Carry a bottle on walks and at archaeological sites; tap water is not generally recommended for drinking.
Book ahead. In summer, reserve boat trips, wine tours, transfers and sunset dinners before you arrive.
Keep a flexible day. The wind can move a boat trip, so leave room to swap days.
Cash and cards. Cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small tavernas, kiosks and buses, especially in the villages and on the quieter beaches.
Light luggage. Many caldera hotels are reached by long flights of steps, so a small suitcase makes arrival and departure much easier; ask your hotel whether a porter can help carry bags from the nearest road or car park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I not miss in Santorini in 2024?
The Oia sunset, the beaches, an evening in Fira, the villages, Akrotiri, the wine, the volcano and hot springs, a caldera cruise and the Fira to Oia walk.
How many days do I need?
Three days for the essentials, five for a relaxed pace.
Is Santorini crowded?
Oia at sunset and Fira on cruise days are busy in summer. Mornings, the villages and the south are calmer.
When is the best time to visit?
Late May, June, September and early October.
Do I need a car?
A car or private tour helps for the south and the villages; the caldera villages are best on foot.
With Santorini Tours. Our private tours cover what not to miss in Santorini in 2024, timed around the crowds and the sunset. Contact us to plan your visit.
