Best things to do in Akrotiri

Famous for its red rock formations, Red Beach sits just steps from the site of an ancient Minoan settlement destroyed by a volcanic eruption and buried in ash around 1627 BCE. Blue waters lapping this beach create a striking contrast with the all-red landscape of the surrounding steep cliffs, which offer unobstructed views of the sea and the curving coastline. The small beach attracts hundreds of visitors each day, creating a lively resort atmosphere well into the evening hours. Two small cafes, cut into the volcanic cliffs just a short walk from the beach, offer cold drinks and light snacks.

Set your clock back a few thousand years with a visit to Akrotiri, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement destroyed by a massive volcanic eruption around 1627 BCE. The volcanic ash buried the remains of many everyday objects used by the settlement's inhabitants, preserving for posterity the ancient way of life of a long-lost culture. Some historians suggest this archeological site, once an important port city on the Aegean, served as an inspiration for Plato's story of Atlantis, a supposedly fictional place mentioned in two of the philosopher's major works. To gain a better understanding of the lost community, take a guided tour around the excavation site.

One of Santorini's black volcanic beaches, Perissa Black Sand Beach remains popular for its calm waters and abundance of sea life. Lined with rustic seafood taverns, the beach offers you a chance to snorkel or windsurf the turquoise sea during the day, and explore the island's popular dining and entertainment options at night. The site lies in the shadows of the Profitis Ilias, a 560 m (1,800 ft) high mountain that protects the coastline from the harsh Aegean winds. A rugged trail starts just above the beach and leads to the ruins of an ancient Christian church, which you can explore on foot or by riding a donkey.

With Experience Horse Riding you can experience the pristine beauty of the island from horseback. Located in a small village near the famous archeological site and the lovely Red Beach, the riding club offers a variety of tours for both first timers and experienced riders that can last from 20 minutes up to 2 hours. A rustic, western style Ranch is equipped with a modern outdoor shower, bar, and restaurant. After a short introductory training session, you will embark on a scenic journey through vineyards and a volcanic canyon before you end up on a beach.

What Caldera Beach lacks in amenities, it makes up for with stunning vistas and a peaceful environment. Located a steep walk away from the main drag, this secluded cove boasts pristine blue waters and striking black sand. Relax in the shade of a tree or try out some of the area's superb snorkeling. It is a good idea to bring drinks with you, but a nearby restaurant can provide snacks and traditional Greek meals. Pack your camera to capture the view of the volcano.

High above Kamari, you can explore the ruins of Ancient Thera. The former city was inhabited from ninth century BC to 726 AD. Hike up the 360 m (1,180 ft) hill, Mesa Vouna, to reach the ruins, or rent a scooter or car to get to the top. The ruins from the Hellenistic era include remnants from the Roman and Byzantine eras. Walk the short main street to glimpse what's left of two agoras (gathering places), several Greek temples, shops, Roman baths, Byzantine walls, and a church. Then look out over the towns and the coast of Santorini below.

One of the oldest lighthouses in Greece, Akrotiri LightHouse still stands as a sentinel on Santorini. A French trading company built the square structure in 1892 and operated it with oil, but the beacon switched to electricity in 1988. Wear closed-toed shoes to safely climb the rocky hill, and when you're finished, consider a meal at one of the surrounding fish taverns. Bring your camera to take advantage of the many photo ops here, which are especially gorgeous at sunset.

The cause of one of the largest and most destructive eruptions in recorded history, Santorini Volcano represents an active volcano with a crater rising out of the sea. The volcano violently erupted in 1627 BCE, destroying the island's thriving Minoan settlement. Although no clear records remain of this event, the eruption appears to have inspired many Greek myths and produced a short-term climatic change that caused heavy rainstorms as far away as Egypt. Today, all of Santorini serves as a kind of volcanological museum, offering you a chance to observe a range of geological features. To appreciate the volcano in its full glory, take a boat tour around the island.

Unwind and sunbathe at Perivolos, popular for its blue water, black sand, and secluded atmosphere. Umbrellas and sun loungers are available for rent, and a row of quality bars and restaurants lines the beachfront. Adventurous travelers can take advantage of the onsite water sport facilities, including windsurfing, kayaking, scuba diving, and jet skiing. Be sure to take water shoes as the sand gets extremely hot in the afternoon and hides some rocks.