10 Underrated Things To Do In Santorini This Summer
Santorini is famous for its breathtaking views of Oia, the stunning caldera, and the unique Red Beach. But there’s a lot more to this island than just these famous spots. Beyond them, Santorini hides many less-known treasures that offer equally amazing experiences.
From peaceful walks in quiet towns early in the morning to discovering ancient sites and enjoying calm evenings by the beach in cozy villages, there’s so much more to see and do. Here, we’ll share 10 underrated activities in Santorini, perfect for anyone wanting to see a different side of this beautiful island.
1. Spend the Evening in Kamari
Kamari transforms into a lively spot at night, with numerous restaurants lining the beachfront. The atmosphere is vibrant yet relaxed, offering a different vibe from the daytime. Besides enjoying the culinary delights, you can also take a stroll on the unique black sand beach, making for a perfect evening out.
2. Visit Koloumbos Beach
Koloumbos Beach is a hidden gem, characterized by its high cliff of lava that dramatically meets the sea. This secluded beach offers a quiet retreat away from the crowds, perfect for those looking to experience a different side of Santorini’s natural beauty.
3. Visit Vlychada Beach
Vlychada Beach is surrounded by naturally sculpted cliffs and small canyons, creating a striking backdrop for a day at the beach. Its unique landscape sets it apart from other beaches in Santorini, offering a dramatic and somewhat Martian atmosphere for sunbathers and photographers alike.
Read More: Vlychada Beach Santorini
4. Visit the Tomato Museum
The Tomato Museum in Santorini is a testament to the island’s unexpected agricultural heritage, specifically its renowned tomato puree. This quaint and informative museum provides insight into the traditional methods of tomato processing and the importance of tomatoes to the local culture and economy.
5. Eat at Elinikon Restaurant
Elinikon Restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience with stunning views. Located on the second floor, diners can enjoy a breathtaking sunset view overlooking the windmills and caldera. The food is exceptional, capturing the essence of Greek cuisine. Due to its popularity and limited seating, it’s advisable to book in advance.
6. Walk the Streets of Oia Super Early in the Morning
Walking through the streets of Oia early in the morning is a serene experience. Before the crowds pour in, the iconic white buildings and blue domes stand peacefully against the waking sky. This quiet time allows you to enjoy the beauty of Oia in solitude, making for a memorable and tranquil start to the day.
7. Visit Pyrgos
Pyrgos offers a unique perspective of Santorini, with a path leading to a castle that boasts a 180-degree view of the island, coast to coast. The incredible vista from this less-trodden spot provides a serene alternative to the bustling tourist areas, allowing for a peaceful appreciation of the island’s beauty.
Discover More: Pyrgos Santorini
8. Visit Ammoudi Bay
Ammoudi Bay, a charming fisherman village nestled below Oia, is a picturesque destination. Its colorful boats and clear waters, combined with the fresh seafood served by the local tavernas, provide a genuine Greek island experience away from the more tourist-centric spots.
9. Visit Akrotiri
Akrotiri is an ancient archaeological site that often gets overlooked by visitors flocking to Oia. Exploring this well-preserved Minoan city gives insight into the advanced civilization that once thrived on Santorini, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island’s history beyond its scenic vistas.
10. A Day Trip to Ios
Taking a day trip to Ios is a wonderful way to experience more of the Cyclades’ charm. This smaller island boasts stunning beaches, quaint villages, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a delightful escape from the more crowded spots in Santorini. It’s a perfect adventure for those looking to explore beyond the well-trodden paths.
11. 34 Things to do on Santorini Island
Picking what to do in Santorini and Santorini Oia village can become overwhelming. Even though the island isn’t big, the crowds and pressure of social media can make it difficult to decide on what is worth seeing in Oía and Santorini.
In this post, we provide you with a detailed guide of Oia Santorini things to do along with a range of places to visit near Oia and travel tips so you can have the best trip in this beautiful Greek Island!
Read More: 34 Things To Do In Oia
12. Best Beaches in Santorini
There is no doubt that if this is your first trip in Greece, you might want to visit Santorini. Although Santorini is known for its picturesque towns such as Oia and Thira for their majestic cliffs, blue dome churches and typical streets, it is also a great island for beaches. Some of Santorini beaches are actually quite unique and would deserve to be talked about a lot more. From thin white sand and lava cliffs to black and red beaches, Santorini best beaches will surprise you one after the other!
Read More: Best Beaches In Santorini
13. Best Greek Islands For Couples
Whether you’ve gotten inspired by movies like Mamma Mia or you’ve seen gorgeous sceneries like the Samaria Gorge that have been having you dreaming about a trip to Greece, we can absolutely confirm that the Greek Islands are one of the best holiday destinations in Greece for couples.
Read more: 16 Best Greek Islands For Couples
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.