Beyond the sunset, Santorini's top sights are the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri (the "Pompeii of the Aegean"), the caldera cruise with the volcano and hot springs, the wineries with Assyrtiko and Vinsanto, Ancient Thera and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera. As they're spread out, a vehicle or a transfer helps.
Santorini isn't only the caldera and the sunset. It's a volcanic island with archaeological treasures, unique wine and landscapes unlike anywhere else in Greece. Here are the top sights and how to visit them.
Top Santorini sights at a glance
| Sight | What it is | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Akrotiri | Prehistoric settlement (roofed) | History, all day |
| Caldera & volcano | Cruise, crater, hot springs | On-the-water experience |
| Wineries | Assyrtiko & Vinsanto, views | Tasting |
| Ancient Thera | Ancient city on a rock | Views & archaeology |
| Oia sunset | The classic spectacle | Late afternoon |
Scoot Transfer
Takes you to the sights with no parking stress in Fira/Oia.
Book a transferAkrotiri: the "Pompeii of the Aegean"
The prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri is the island's must-see: an entire Minoan town buried by the volcanic eruption around 1600 BC and preserved under the ash. The site is roofed, so you can visit comfortably even at midday. It's in the southwest, near Red Beach.
Ancient Thera
On top of the Mesa Vouno rock, above Kamari and Perissa, lie the ruins of Ancient Thera โ a city with Hellenistic and Roman monuments and stunning views. The road climbs in bends; ideally go early in the morning.
Caldera, volcano & hot springs
A caldera cruise takes you to Nea Kameni, the volcanic islet with its crater, and to the hot springs of Palea Kameni. Many boats also stop at Thirasia. It's one of the most popular half- or full-day experiences.
Wineries & Santorini wine
The volcanic soil produces unique wines โ chiefly the crisp Assyrtiko and sweet Vinsanto โ from vines pruned into a basket shape ("kouloura") to shield them from the wind. Many wineries offer tastings with caldera views.
Museums & hiking
In Fira, the Museum of Prehistoric Thera holds the finds from Akrotiri. If you like walking, the caldera path from Fira to Oia (about 10 km) is one of Greece's finest. And of course, don't miss the Oia sunset.
How to reach the sights
Distances are short but traffic and parking in Fira/Oia are hard. A rental gives you flexibility โ see the guide to renting a car, ATV or scooter. For arrival/departure or a relaxed ride with no parking, Scoot Transfer takes you wherever you want. See also getting around Santorini.
Frequently asked questions
The prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri โ a Minoan town buried by the volcanic eruption, roofed and visitable all day. Next come the caldera, the volcano and the wineries.
Yes, if you want to see the caldera from within: it takes you to Nea Kameni (crater) and the hot springs of Palea Kameni, often with a stop at Thirasia.
It helps, as the sights are spread out. A rental or a transfer is more comfortable than the infrequent buses, especially in the heat.
At wineries with caldera views that run Assyrtiko and Vinsanto tastings. Many are in central and southern Santorini.