Back in business, Santorini’s black sands and famous sunsets await

Rich culture, thriving traditions and a lively food scene: here are the top things to do – and eat – in Santorini.

Tourists look set to return to Santorini after a month of tremors rocked the Greek island.

Speaking to Euronews Travel at ITB Berlin 2025, Greek Tourism minister Olga Kefalogianni reassured the public about the situation, stating that as seismic activity around Santorini is declining, islanders are looking to a season that will “operate as normally as possible”.

“We want to make sure that our residents and our visitors in Santorini will feel safe, and that they will enjoy their time on the island.”

Already schools have opened and, as Santorini prepares to welcome back visitors, here are some of the island’s must-see experiences.

Soak up the sights in world-famous Fira

If Athens has the brains and Sparta has the brawn, Santorini is the epitome of Greece’s beauty.

With its whitewashed facades, mesmerising sunsets and cerulean sea, the Greek island is a clear head-turner, yet there’s more to this paradise than just good looks.

Santorini’s main town is a hive of activity with restaurants, bars, clubs and cafés at every turn. Famed for its gleaming white buildings topped by vibrant indigo domes, Fira embodies the postcard-perfect Santorini scene – beautiful buildings, panoramic views, and trailing bougainvillaea.

Soak up the sunshine while wandering the cobbled streets or sit at one of the many roadside coffee shops to watch the world go by. For a dose of history, head to the Museum of Prehistoric Thera to marvel at extraordinary finds excavated from Akrotiri, which has been settled since neolithic times.

From here, head to Fira’s caldera edge where the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral rises majestically into blue skies.

Built in 1827, the cathedral was badly damaged in a catastrophic earthquake in 1956. But shortly after, it was beautifully renovated with intricate mosaics, a statuesque bell tower, and magnificent rolling arches. Inside, the church is adorned with beautiful frescoes for you to admire, painted by local artist Christoforos Asimis.

Enjoy the great outdoors on Santorini’s black shores

No visit to Santorini is complete without witnessing one of the world’s most stunning sunsets. For the best views, head to the Byzantine castle ruins in the charming, popular town of Oia.

From here, you’ll not only be elevated to a prime position but you’ll also be treated to a glimpse into Oia’s past among its crumbling castle walls. Get here early to guarantee your prime viewing place among the crowds and settle in for Mother Nature’s headline act.

Sunsets aside, Santorini is also known for its black sand beaches, formed through centuries of volcanic activity. Perissa Beach at the base of Mesa Vouno Mountain is Santorini’s longest black sand beach, offering crystal-clear waters and a vibrant atmosphere.

Here you’ll find comfy sun loungers, watersports, cafés and a waterpark with three slides and pools for the entire family. At the end of the beach, an elevated spot is popular among divers who leap into the ocean below.

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 also rewards you with breathtaking views of Santorini’s cliffs and the picturesque towns of Oia and Fira. To avoid the intense midday heat, start early, or time your hike to catch the sunset for an unforgettable view.

Get off-the-beaten-track in Thirasia

Thirasia is an island remnant of Santorini past. Located on the caldera’s west side, you’ll find very few tourists here, allowing you to explore the tiny coves and soaring hills uninterrupted.

The best way to explore the hidden beaches and half-abandoned villages is via motorbike or on foot, though you’ll need to hop on a ten-minute water taxi from the Ammoudi harbour to reach its shores.

In striking contrast to its neighbour’s lively bars and bustling shops, Thirasia remains largely undeveloped, and is described by locals as ‘Santorini 50 years ago’.

Sample locally-grown Greek cuisine

From traditional tavernas to international fine dining, foodies can find Santorini restaurants with menus ranging from fresh seafood to sushi.

For a true taste of the island, opt for local flavours washed down with Greek wine. Santorini is lauded for its crisp dry whites and the amber-coloured dessert wine known as Vinsanto, made from the indigenous grape variety, assyrtiko.

Check out the local vineyards, which offer tours and wine tastings – some even curate pairings with food grown on the island.

To learn from the masters, enroll in a cookery class like the Petra Kouzina Cooking Experience, during which you’ll get to try your hand at several Greek dishes before sitting down for a communal meal on the terrace.