Free things to do in Santorini during your holidays

There aren’t many places where you can choose your sunbathing beach by the colour of its sand – but then again, there aren’t many places like Santorini. Fancy one with red sand? Then head off to Akrotiri for a beautiful and dramatic offering. Surrounded by cliffs of the same deep red colour, you can laze, swim and sunbathe here as much as you please. And if you fancy something more active to follow, then a short hike to the nearby archaeological site is well worth the effort. 

Kamari Beach is a vast and spacious option which is just perfect for picnics. So pack a hamper filled with local cheese, tomatoes, olives and bread; splash out on a bottle of wine; treat yourself to some baklavas for dessert; and find the perfect spot to lay down your beach towels.

On a budget? No problem. The Akrotiri archaeological site is not only one of the top things to do on Santorini, it’s also one of the most important sites in the whole of the Aegean. This is because of the significant buildings which have been discovered here. One known as the “House of Ladies” is named after the numerous frescos of ladies which decorate its walls. A little insider tip to save yourself even more money – check and time your visit for national holidays when the admission is free! 

Art-lovers should stop off at Mnemossyne Gallery in Oia. Located in an old cave, it’s the town’s most famous shop. Here you can view work created by the island’s top designers and artists. And even though it’s not strictly free, the admission charge is very reasonable – making it a perfect option for a budget trip. 

If activities are high on your agenda, then Santorini has a number of options to keep you entertained. Beyond the countless watersports available on the island’s beaches, hiking is another popular pastime. Santorini boasts vast, dramatic cliff landscapes and there are countless scenic routes to explore when you’re ready for a bit of a ramble. Some of the most-visited walks are from Fira to Oia, and the popular trip around the Nea Kameni Volcano, Hot Springs, and the near-deserted Thirasia (for which you’ll need to take a ferry).

As well as being home to a dormant volcano, Nea Kameni also plays host to some natural mud baths with plenty of revitalising properties. This natural spa experience is one of the top things to do in Santorini, offering warm waters rich in minerals such as manganese and iron. These elements are responsible for the healing properties, and the red-tinged waters are said to be good for respiratory problems as well as for aching muscles and joints. And the best part? You can stay as long as you like, because it’s completely free.

Whatever else you plan, one of the top things to do on Santorini is to watch the sunset from Oia. Not only is Oia the prettiest town on the island, it’s also where everybody comes to watch the sun go down. Be sure to get there early, during the summer people start arriving from about four o’clock in the afternoon. Find yourself a comfortable spot on a cliff or a ledge, or at one of the tiny local tavernas, and just wait for the most beautiful sight you could ever wish to see.