Romantic Things to do in Santorini

Santorini is renowned for its wine, with local grape varieties uniquely grown using a basket called a kouloura to protect them from scorching sun and wind. The volcanic soil also imparts a unique flavor that’s helped make the island’s wine so highly acclaimed. There are multiple opportunities for wine tasting in the local vineyards, including tours for sipping without getting behind the wheel. You’ll be able to sample different varieties at several wineries while learning about Santorini’s viticulture, often alongside Cycladic cheeses and other light bites. Other attractions can be included too, like a visit to the ancient Pompeii-like Akrotiri settlement. Or, combine a Greek cooking class with tastings so you can make some of the island’s signature dishes when you return home.

Taking a sunset cruise is one of the top things to do in Santorini, but even better for romance seekers is a private sunset cruise on what will feel like your very own catamaran. Before watching an iconic sunset from your elegant vessel, you’ll typically enjoy a number of activities like visiting the unique Red Beach, soaking in warm volcanic springs, and snorkeling with your gear included. A meal is usually part of the experience too, typically a Greek BBQ meal that’s prepared onboard with items like grilled chicken skewers, stuffed vine leaves, and Greek salad. An open bar with local wine, Greek beer, water, and soft drinks is typically part of the package with the grand finale watching the sun go down.

Spectacular Falassarna Beach can be easily combined with a visit to Balos Lagoon. Multiple outfitters offer tours that include both, or you can make the 20-minute drive from Kissamos on your own. It’s the easiest to reach of the two, with no hike required. Falassarna is actually made up of five consecutive beaches with the main beach known as Pachia Ammos, stretching for about two-thirds of a mile. While it attracts the most visitors, as there’s so much room, it rarely feels too crowded. There are umbrellas, facilities for watersports, and several cafes and snack bars making it enjoyable to spend the whole day. Plus, at the northern end of the beach, you’ll even find the ancient ruins of Phalassarna, a Greco-Roman city.

The top hike on Santorini is the path running from Fira to Oia, following the rim of the caldera. It can be hiked in either direction, stretching just over six miles with a mix of paved, pedestrianized streets and dirt trails. Starting from Fira is generally preferred as you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of Oia without having to turn around and look back. It’s also a downhill walk and when you reach Oia, you can return by bus or taxi. The views along the way are stunning, with numerous photo ops, from the endless blue waters of the Aegean and a spectacular lagoon to historic churches. Many time it to catch the famous sunset in Oia, the perfect reward for your effort.

A private helicopter tour is worth the splurge for an extra-special highlight of your time in Santorini. Enjoy a bird’s-eye view over the island’s magnificent landscapes and the sapphire sea surrounding it. There are a variety of options available with typical helicopter flight durations of 20 to 30 minutes. You’ll not only be able to gaze down at the nearly endless expanse of the Aegean, but unique volcanic formations, the half-submerged caldera, the active Nea Kameni volcano nearby, and whitewashed villages like the capital of Fira and famous Oia where the homes and buildings spill down volcanic cliffs. While admiring it all, you’ll gain insight into the island’s interesting geological history and the ancient volcanic eruption that changed its future.