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10 Fun Activities To Do During Your Santorini Vacation

Despite its tragic history, Santorini has grown to become one of the most visited vacation spots in the Aegean Sea. Discover how you can make the most out of your trip.

Breathtaking landscapes, old churches, and whitewashed buildings. These are just some of the things that attract tourists to Santorini. Like any sizable island in the Aegean Sea, it has fantastic beaches and clear blue waters that beckon anyone who sees it.

But there’s more to Santorini than what you see on picture-perfect postcard photos. Take a look at some of the fun activities you shouldn’t miss out on during your trip.

1. Experience the Thrill of a Parasailing Flight

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Why not start your Santorini visit with a bang? Fly over the Aegean Sea and catch the sunset while feeling as free as a bird.

Parasailing tours are highly popular in the area as they allow people to catch mind-blowing glimpses of both the island and the volcano. You can also go on a flight for two, which promises to be an amazing experience for couples.

2. Visit the Volcano and Hot Springs

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If you’re looking for unique things to do in Santorini, then a volcano tour might be your thing. One of the best ways to do it is as part of a 7-hour adventure tour. But really, any tour of the volcano is super fun.

You can hike all the way up the volcano and then stop for a swim in the hot springs. And if you want to, you can even go up to the volcano from Perivolos beach via jet ski before moving into the caldera

3. Catch a Movie

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Seeing a movie may not sound like one of the best things to do in Santorini. However, it’s a different experience when you go to an outdoor cinema.

The Open-Air Cinema at Kamari is an ideal place to spend a warm summer night. Its picturesque backdrop, massive screen, and wide range of movies from classics to newest releases always make a great impression on tourists.

However, note that the cinema only stays open between May and October.

4. Underwater Exploration

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Scuba diving is another one of the fun things to do in Santorini. Make sure to check out the local diving center and talk to the experts.

Don’t worry if it’s your first time diving deep underwater. After a short course, you can learn the basics of diving before heading straight for the bottom of the sea near Santorini Island.

You can also either dive alone if you already know what you’re doing or go with a master diver.

5. Have Photo Ops at the Red Beach

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If you’re looking for Santorini day trips, don’t forget hitting the Red Beach. The famed red hue of the volcanic beach makes it a popular tourist attraction. It’s named as such because of the sand that is pulverized volcanic rock from the Santorini Caldera.

However, note that the area sees many landslides, so you won’t be able to explore the entire beach. That said, you can still take some fantastic panoramic shots from the shore or while on a boat.

6. Hike the Fira-Oia Trail

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Not everyone considers hiking fun. But of all the things to do in Santorini, hiking the Fira-Oia Trail is probably the best. This is the perfect activity for you if you love the outdoors, easy trails, and a backdrop alternating between villages and caldera cliffs.

It can take anywhere between two and five hours, depending on how fast you can walk. That said, the trail is only 6.5 miles. There’s not much to it in terms of difficulty – the majority of the path is almost like a cobblestone sidewalk, while the rest is all dirt.

The Fira-Oia hike is an excellent opportunity to take in the picturesque scenery, learn about the island’s history, and take impressive photos to show off later.

7. Wine Tasting

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Another one of the fun things to do in Santorini is to go wine tasting. After all, most of the vines on the island are hundreds of years old.

The Venetsanos Winery offers a fantastic sunset view. And on your way to Kamari, make sure to visit the local Wine Museum.

You can always also join one of the many half-day or full-day wine tours. In doing so, you get to travel by bus while enjoying the dreamy view of the caldera.

8. Spend a Day at Perivolos Beach

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Also known as the Black Beach, Perivolos Beach is undeniably one of the hottest spots in Santorini. The black sand, sparkling waters, and gorgeous backdrop provide a picturesque setting for a warm summer day.

Note that it’s not an underdeveloped beach by any means. You’ll have access to various retreats, entertainment spots, relaxation venues, and more.

The beach is also famous for its variety of water sport activities and loud beach bars.

9. Visit the Akrotiri Historical Site and Thera Museum

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Tourists with a passion for history will enjoy a trip to the Akrotiri prehistoric settlement. It’s where they can see one of the most exciting archeological sites in the Aegean Sea.

Akrotiri is well-preserved and you can explore the site with a guide.

The museum features a variety of items from both Akrotiri and Potamos and various other sites. However, some of the most important artifacts are actually on display at the Prehistoric Thera Museum in Santorini’s capital Fira.

Also, the oldest artifacts go as far back as the Late Neolithic era. What’s even more exciting is that many of the items are surprisingly still in perfect condition.

10. See A Panoramic Island View from the Monastery

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Santorini has lots of churches all over the island. From smaller chapels to impressive monasteries, the island has them all. But the main attraction among tourists is one of the more unusual monasteries.

From the outside, the Prophet Elias Monastery looks more like a fortress than a church. Its rich history attracts plenty of people every year, but something else makes a trip to it one of the best things to do in Santorini.

Everyone knows it as the high point where you can have a unique view of Santorini. That’s why if you want to take memorable panoramic photos on your vacation, know that this is the spot to visit.

There’s Never a Dull Moment

The scenery alone is enough for most people who visit Santorini to have a great experience. But you can do something adventurous every day, too. That’s as long as you want to learn more about island life, history, and hidden gems.

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Trip Ideas

New Orleans’ Haunted History: A Ghost Tour

New Orleans, the Crescent City, is renowned for its vibrant music, delectable cuisine, and unique cultural blend. But beneath the surface of jazz-filled streets and colorful balconies lies a darker, more mysterious side: a history steeped in tragedy, Voodoo, and countless restless spirits. If you’re looking for an adventure that will send shivers down your spine and ignite your imagination, a ghost tour in New Orleans is an absolute must-do!

Imagine walking through the dimly lit cobblestone streets of the French Quarter, the gas lamps casting long, dancing shadows, as a seasoned storyteller regales you with tales of centuries-old hauntings. This isn’t just about jump scares; it’s an immersive journey into the city’s past, where every building seems to hold a chilling secret.

What Makes New Orleans So Haunted?

New Orleans Street — Visittheusa.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.visittheusa.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The city’s tumultuous history has created fertile ground for paranormal activity. From devastating fires and rampant epidemics like yellow fever to the brutal realities of slavery and violent crimes, New Orleans has witnessed its share of profound suffering. This rich, often tragic, past has left an indelible mark, and many believe the spirits of those who lived and died here still linger.

Iconic Haunted Locations You Might Encounter:

A good ghost tour will take you to some of New Orleans’ most infamous spectral hotspots. Here are a few you’re likely to hear about:

The LaLaurie Mansion — Al.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.al.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The LaLaurie Mansion (1140 Royal Street): Perhaps the most notorious haunted house in America, this grand mansion was once home to Madame Delphine LaLaurie, a wealthy socialite infamous for her horrific cruelty towards her enslaved people in the early 19th century. The tales of torture and suffering within its walls are truly unsettling, and many claim the tormented spirits of her victims still haunt the property.

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 — Cemeterytourneworleans.com. (2025). Available at: https://cemeterytourneworleans.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1: As the oldest cemetery in New Orleans, established in 1789, it’s a labyrinth of above-ground tombs and crumbling mausoleums. It’s the final resting place of many notable figures, including the legendary Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. Visitors often report seeing ghostly figures, hearing whispers, and feeling an eerie presence among the ornate tombs.

The Ursuline Convent — Tripadvisor.com. (2025). Available at: https://dynamic-media-cdn.tripadvisor.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The Ursuline Convent: This imposing building, dating back to the 1750s, holds tales of mysterious deaths and sightings of ghostly nuns. It’s also famously associated with the “Casket Girls” legend – young French women who arrived with small chests, rumored to be vampires by some, though history tells a less sensational story of their belongings.

Hotel Monteleone — Phgcdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://phgcdn.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

Hotel Monteleone: This luxurious hotel has a long history and a reputation for being exceptionally haunted. Guests and staff have reported encounters with spectral children, including a young boy named Maurice who is said to roam the 14th floor, still searching for his parents.

Muriel's Jackson Square — Thevendry.com. (2025). Available at: https://thevendry.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

Muriel’s Jackson Square: This restaurant is reportedly haunted by its former owner, Pierre Antoine Lepardi Jourdan, who committed suicide upstairs after losing the property in a poker game. Diners have reported moving objects, disembodied voices, and a general feeling of being watched.

Beyond the Ghosts: A Historical Perspective

New Orleans ghost tours are more than just spooky stories; they offer a unique way to delve into the city’s complex history. You’ll learn about the origins of Voodoo in New Orleans, the impact of significant historical events, and the lives of the colorful, and often tragic, characters who shaped this remarkable city. The guides are often captivating storytellers, blending historical facts with local legends to create an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, a New Orleans ghost tour promises an evening of intrigue, history, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s a chance to see the city in a different light, to feel the echoes of its past, and perhaps, to even encounter a friendly (or not-so-friendly) spirit.

Punta Cana

Beach Bliss in Punta Cana: Top All-Inclusive Resorts

Punta Cana, with its endless stretches of powdery white sand, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters, is the quintessential Caribbean escape. And what better way to experience this slice of paradise than with the ease and luxury of an all-inclusive resort? From romantic adults-only havens to fun-filled family adventures, Punta Cana offers a resort for every type of traveler.

If you’re dreaming of a hassle-free vacation where your every whim is catered to, look no further. We’ve rounded up some of the top all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana, designed to deliver unforgettable beach bliss.

For the Romantic Escape: Adults-Only Serenity

Couples seeking tranquility and romance will find their perfect match in Punta Cana’s adults-only resorts. Imagine candlelit dinners by the sea, relaxing spa treatments, and uninterrupted moments with your loved one.

Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa: Tucked away in the exclusive Cap Cana enclave, this resort promises opulent luxury with Unlimited-Luxury® inclusions. Think gourmet dining, endless top-shelf spirits, and impeccable service, all set against a backdrop of pristine beaches.
Excellence Punta Cana: Known for its refreshing child-free ambiance, this resort in northern Punta Cana offers a myriad of dining and drinking options. Indulge in poolside and beachfront wait service, and consider a couples’ spa day in an ocean-view massage cabana.
Meliá Punta Cana Beach Wellness Inclusive – Adults Only: For those seeking a holistic approach to relaxation, this resort offers a unique wellness concept designed to rejuvenate body and mind. Enjoy upscale accommodations, diverse restaurants, and a serene spa.
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana: Located on the stunning Juanillo Beach, this five-star adults-only resort boasts an impressive array of amenities, including a swimmable beach, multiple pools, and world-class dining.

For the Ultimate Family Fun: Adventures for All Ages

Punta Cana also shines as a fantastic destination for families. Many all-inclusive resorts here go above and beyond to provide entertainment and activities for kids of all ages, ensuring parents can relax while the little ones have a blast.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana: If your kids are fans of SpongeBob or Paw Patrol, this playful, all-inclusive resort is a dream come true. With character breakfasts, slime parties, and the huge Aqua Nick water park, it’s non-stop fun for the whole family.
Barceló Bávaro Palace: This sprawling beachfront resort is a family favorite, offering a private beach, a golf course, and a casino. Kids will love the children’s pool, kids’ club, playground, arcade, and even a bowling alley!
Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana: One of Punta Cana’s newer family resorts, Dreams Macao boasts a fantastic water park with slides, a lazy river, and splash pads, all set on a swimmable beach. Spacious family suites ensure comfort for everyone.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana: This mega-resort brings the energetic Hard Rock vibe with a plethora of family-friendly amenities. Featuring 13 pools, waterslides, a kids’ club, an arcade, bowling alley, mini-golf, and even a FlowRider, boredom is simply not an option.

For the Thrill-Seekers: Resorts with Epic Water Parks

Want to make a splash? Several Punta Cana resorts are renowned for their incredible on-site water parks, promising exhilarating fun for guests of all ages.

Royalton Splash Punta Cana, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino: Home to one of the largest water parks in the Caribbean, Royalton Splash offers towering slides, a wave pool, and splash zones, making it a paradise for water lovers.
Grand Sirenis Punta Cana Resort & Aquagames: Located on the beautiful Uvero Alto Beach, this resort features a fantastic water park with a variety of slides and attractions suitable for families.
Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino: Their “Splash Island” water park spans an impressive 1,500m², with palm trees, marine life, and a mix of gentle fun for little ones and thrilling elevated slides for the adventurous.

Read More: Hidden Gems in Orlando

Planning Your Punta Cana Escape

When choosing your all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, consider what’s most important to you:

Travel companions: Are you looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly adventure?
Desired atmosphere: Do you prefer a lively, energetic resort or a more serene and relaxed environment?
Specific amenities: Are water parks, golf courses, or extensive spa facilities a priority?

No matter what your ideal beach vacation looks like, Punta Cana’s all-inclusive resorts are ready to deliver an unforgettable experience. Pack your swimsuits, leave your worries behind, and get ready for some true beach bliss!

Trip Ideas

Coffee, Culture, and the Coastline: A Perfect Day in Seattle

Ever wake up in a city that smells like freshly-pulled espresso and feels like adventure is waiting around every corner?

That’s Seattle for ya—one toe-tapping beat ahead of the rest of the caffeine-loving world. If you’re wondering what a perfect day looks like in a city known for coffee culture and the coastline, you’re in luck. Lace up your walking shoes, loosen that belt a notch, and let’s squeeze every last drop out of 24 glorious hours on Puget Sound.

7 AM – A Dawn-Patrol Latte: Dive Into Seattle’s Coffee Culture

Sure, you could hit the green-and-white siren, but instead, why not start at Fulcrum Café in Belltown? The baristas there know their single-origin beans better than most folks know their own passwords. Plus, the lemon-curd pastries? Downright dangerous.

If you’re in the mood for more, Anchorhead, Elm, and Caffe Ladro are clustered close enough for a mini-crawl. It’s a dream for anyone chasing Seattle’s famous coffee culture and the coastline.

Travel pro tip: Order a “one-and-one.” That’s an espresso and its drip-brew sibling, so you can nerd out on flavor notes without looking like a total snob.

9 AM – Pike Place Magic on the Coastline

Pike Place Market Seattle — Hotelandra.com. (2019). Available at: https://hotelandra.com/ [Accessed 2 Jun. 2025]

With caffeine coursing through your veins, wander downhill to Pike Place Market. Snap the obligatory photo under the neon clock, then dodge a flying salmon or two.

Snack time? Beecher’s mac, a slab of Ellenos yogurt, maybe a hot mini-doughnut you’ll swear was “for later.” It’s all part of what makes this spot an essential stop in the world of coffee culture and the coastline.

11 AM – The Overlook Walk Stroll

Here’s a nifty upgrade: the new Overlook Walk now bridges Pike Place straight to Elliott Bay. No more duck-and-weave across traffic—just roll down the terraced Salish Steps, breathe in that crisp salt air, and boom: you’re waterfront-side with zero stress. It’s seamless and super scenic.

Noon – Lunch with a View

Elliott’s Oyster House Seattle — Elliottsoysterhouse.com. (2024). Available at: https://www.elliottsoysterhouse.com/ Accessed 2 Jun. 2025]

By midday, hunger hits again. So, swing by Elliott’s Oyster House for some briny bivalves, or grab a paper boat of battered cod from Ivar’s. Then, snag a bench on Pier 58’s shiny new promenade. While you eat, watch ferries glide toward Bainbridge as street musicians supply the soundtrack. It’s the kind of moment that makes you forget to check your phone.

2 PM – Culture Fix

Olympic Sculpture Park Seattle — Seattleartfair.com. (2025). Available at: https://seattleartfair.com/ [Accessed 2 Jun. 2025]

Next up, hop the streetcar (or hoof it, we’re counting steps) to Seattle Center. There, geek out at MoPOP’s indie-game exhibit, gape at Chihuly’s glass tendrils, or zip 520 feet up the Space Needle for the ultimate carousel-floor selfie. Additionally, if you’re feeling artsy but thrifty, detour to the free Olympic Sculpture Park, where Alexander Calder’s Eagle frames the mountains like it owns the place.

4 PM – “Second Coffee” (Because Seattle)

Front of the Seattle Coffee Works Cafe — Dailycoffeenews.com. (2025). Available at: https://dailycoffeenews.com/ [Accessed 2 Jun. 2025]

Naturally, no Seattle afternoon is complete without another coffee. Hit Seattle Coffee Works on Pine for a silky iced latte, or slide into Victrola on 15th if Capitol Hill calls your name. Alternatively, locals swear by the cardamom-rose latte at Caffé Vita—trust us, it’s a hug in a mug you won’t forget.

5 PM – Golden-Hour Spin along the Coast

Pier 58 Seattle Playground — Seattle.gov. (2025). Available at: https://parkways.seattle.gov [Accessed 2 Jun. 2025]

By now, it’s time to move again. Rent a bike—those fresh-minted protected lanes make the ride from Pioneer Square to the Aquarium feel like butter—and cruise the waterfront. Along the way, don’t miss Pier 58’s new jellyfish-shaped climbing structure. Honestly, kids and adults alike lose their minds over it, so give yourself time to gawk.

7 PM – Sunset Finale

Sunset View of the Puget Sound — Vtexassets.com. (2017). Available at: https://muralsyourway.vtexassets.com/ [Accessed 2 Jun. 2025]

Nothing beats a Puget Sound sunset—well, maybe one with a local IPA in hand. So, grab a pint at Old Stove Brewing, then mosey to the Great Wheel for cotton-candy skies. Or, if crowds aren’t your jam, hop a quick ride to Kerry Park and watch the skyline light up like a switched-on circuit board.

9 PM – Nightcap & Notes

A band Playing at The Pink Door Cabaret Seattle — Squarespace-cdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/ [Accessed 2 Jun. 2025]

Finally, slide into The Pink Door’s back-alley cabaret (look for the unmarked entrance) for a negroni and some live jazz. Take a moment to jot down the day’s highlights—trust me, tomorrow’s you will forget half of them—and toast to the fact that, yes, one city really can pack this much goodness into a single day.

Ready to Live the Dream?

Our travel team can line up skip-the-line market tours, private coffee cuppings, or even a sunset sail on Elliott Bay. So, drop us a line and we’ll stitch together your very own Seattle story—beans, bridges, and bayside bliss included.

See you under the Public Market clock.