9 Things to Do in Santorini, Greece

Those who’ve watched The Sisterhood of Traveling Pants as a teenager will remember when Lena (Alexis Bledel) spent her summer frolicking around the Greek island of Santorini with a pair of pants and her lover, Kostas. In between the shots of Lena falling into the water and her cute dates with Kostas, you may have noticed that Santorini is the perfect combination of beauty, paradise, and exclusivity. If you ever find yourself roaming around the islands of Santorini, here are 9 things that you cannot pass up!

1. Rent a bike to travel around the island.
   
   Picture from santorinibikerental.com

   The island of Santorini is only 28.2 square miles and can be easily navigated by bus or car. However, if you’re looking for a lively way to explore the island, you may want to consider renting a motorcycle or ATV. If you don’t know where to look for a bike rental store, you can check out Moto Kostas in the town of Fira where you can rent one of these bad boys for 24 hours!

2. Enjoy the majestic views from Oia.

   

   Picture from SantoriniDave.com

   The village of Oia is known for its beautiful white and blue domed churches and breathtaking sunsets. Located on top of a cliff, Oia has a great view of the volcano of Palia and New Kameni.

3. Take a dip at Amoudi Bay.
   

   

   As you walk down the long flight of stairs to Amoudi Bay – the small port at the bottom of Oia –  you’ll find yourself smack dab in between taverns offering fresh fish, hotels and a great swimming spot. If you’re feeling too tired to walk back up the steps (over 300 to give you an estimate), you can always pay for a mule ride! Beware of the atrocious smells though!

4. Have a picnic at one of Santorini’s many perfect beaches.
   

   

   My  favorites would have to be Perissa Beach and Red Beach. With the prominent cliffs and the clear waters, you will not want to forget your camera at home!

5. Explore the town of Fira.
   
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   Fira is the main town in Santorini and consists of bars (check out the amazing views from Palia Kameni Cocktail bar!), clubs, the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, and the Koo night club.

6. Swim in the volcanic hot springs.

   

   Don’t worry – the hot springs aren’t actually hot. Most of the guided tours of the island allow their customers to swim in the natural hot springs, so suit up and dive in!

7. Gorge on a few gyros from Obelix!
   

   

   I mean, you can’t not go to Santorini and eat a gyro right… Roasted meat + french fries + veggies + tzatziki sauce = PERFECTION.

8. Volcano, Hot Springs, Thirassia and Oia tour.

   

   If you want to get a better feel of Santorini without damaging your bank account, this day-long tour of Santorini is the perfect fit for you. At 19 euros a person, you’ll be able to climb on top of a volcano, swim in the hot springs of Palia Kameni, eat in the small taverns near the port of Thiraasia Island and enjoy the sunset from Oia (see number 2).

9. Fall in love like Lena from The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants.
   

   

   Lena and Kostas forbidden love in the first installment of SotTP  had us all wishing we were sixteen again and being forced to spend a summer on a Greek island.