How to Plan the Perfect Trip You’ll Love in Santorini with Teenagers

Have you daydreamed about being amongst Santorini’s volcanic cliffs and blue domes? If you’ve come to this post, I think you are considering making that dream a reality by planning the perfect trip to Santorini.  There are many awesome things to do with teenagers in Santorini, Greece, and young adults.  Here I’m going to walk through our 3-day itinerary of everything we did to make us fall in love with Santorini.  

Santorini is that picturesque, magical island that people from around the world dream about. It’s undeniable why Santorini and the Greek islands are at the forefront of most travelers’ bucket lists of places to go.  I’m beyond thrilled that I could check this exceptional island off my bucket list.  

Santorini, Greece, is a part of the Cyclades islands in the Southern Aegean Sea.  Its jaw-dropping caldera landscape formed after several significant volcanic eruptions, the last being around 1620 BC.   

Is Santorini fun for teenagers?

I think Santorini is fun for teenagers as long as you plan some age-appropriate activities ahead of time.  Although let me be real with you, there is some steep climbing and a lot of walking up and down.  They may grow tired of all the walking and climbing at times.  So just make sure to include many stops along the way, maybe get some ice cream, smoothies, and cold water to cool down. 

Stop and take pictures of the scenery while sightseeing.  And make sure to keep them good and fed.  That means stopping for snacks in between meals. We don’t want them to get hangry.    

Also, ensure your teen dresses for the weather, especially in the blazing hot summer months, and sunscreen/sunblock.  

Other than that, I know teenagers and young adults will love Santorini’s gorgeous turquoise waters, white-washed houses, and stunning sunsets.  Just like we did!

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How to get to Santorini with teenagers

By Plane

If you are flying in from the US, you will likely fly into Athens airport.  However, we flew in from London directly into Santorini.  It was a comfortable four-hour non-stop flight with British Airways.  Other countries in Europe offer direct flights to Santorini as well.  

To check out affordable flights and rates, click here

By Ferry

It’s easy to travel from other Greek Islands by Ferry.  If you fly into Athens, you can take a Ferry to Santorini. To book a Ferry, we used Ferry Hopper.  Make sure you are at the port at least 1 hour before departure.  Then, check with the vessel company’s Customer Service to ensure what ferry you are getting on. It can be a bit chaotic. 

Check the Ferry schedule and rates here

How to Plan the Perfect Trip in Santorini with Teenagers they’ll love

Climb Skaros Rock for Astonishing Views in Santorini with teenagers

We were excited about exploring the island the first day we got to Santorini.  One of the first things you can do in Santorini with teenagers is walk to Skaros Rock.  Skaros Rock is in the town of Imerovigli, where our accommodation was.  

Anyhow the hike can take about 1 – 2 hours.  You can start at the Agios Georgios Church, which will take you to Skaros Rock.  The hike consists of climbing down, then up some stairs to reach the rock with some steep hills.  There are two chapels to not miss along the walk, the chapel of Agios Ioannis, Katiforis, and chapel Theoskepasti.  

You and your family will enjoy the fantastic views of the Caldera, the Aegean sea, Oia, and the Kameni islands.  Hiking would be a great start as an introduction to the island.

A few tips. Before your hiking venture, make sure to wear proper shoes for climbing.  Let those young adults of yours know to be careful.  

Get Lost in Fira

Fira is an impressive town and the Capital of Santorini.  It may not be as popular as Oia, but it’s bigger than Oia and a remarkable area with plenty of things to do.  Walk down the narrow pathways and get lost admiring the whitewashed buildings.  

While strolling along, seek out and visit the Three Bells of Fira Church.  Get some iconic photos at the chapel and the three bells overlooking the cobalt blue sea and caldera.  The three Bells of Fira is a famous landmark of Santorini and is what you will see all over the internet and on Instagram.  You cannot come to Santorini and skip this attraction.  Its beautiful Blue dome and bell tower protruding out to the Aegean Sea is a must-see.  

Next, explore the picturesque village and walk along the caldera walls while gazing out towards the sea.

Another incredible thing to do is catch some spectacular sunsets in Fira.  The sun setting over the blue waters is captivating.  Not to mention the array of red and yellow hues you’ll see showcased over the houses, restaurants, and caves will leave you in awe. 

Go for a Spin on the Cable Car with Teenagers and Young Adults

Teens and young adults love getting in a cable car for a bit of adventure.  Riding the cable car is a fun way to get from the old port of Fira up the cliffs into town without walking up the stairs or riding a donkey.  The port is where cruise ships arrive, and the passengers can take the cable car up to Fira from the port, saving them from the struggle of carrying luggage up.  

Then teens will enjoy going up in the air and getting spectacular views of the caldera, the volcano, and the Aegean Sea.  The tickets are €6 for adults, and €3 for children.

Enjoy a Magical Sunset View at Dinner

You must enjoy the incredible sunset views when you come to Santorini with teenagers and young adults.  You cannot come to Santorini and not partake in it.  It is a right of passage, I tell you!  Santorini is famously known for its ICONIC, breathtaking, spectacular sunsets.  The most enchanting area to watch the sunset is in Oia.  Seeing the sunset at dinner is an incredible experience with teenagers in Santorini.  You can make a reservation at one of the many restaurants with breathtaking sunset views.  

Secondly, Ammoudi Bay in Oia would be an excellent choice to eat dinner and watch the sunset.  Real talk, some tables are literally along the edge of the water.  They take the seaside to a whole other level here.  

I cannot talk about watching sunsets without mentioning this place.  The most famous place to enjoy the sunset is at the Castle of St. Nicholas.   Just be aware that since it is an iconic spot on the northern tip of Oia, there will be loads and loads of people trying to get a glimpse of that astonishing sunset too. 

But, hold up one second.

Aside from Oia’, the village of Imerovigli has unmatched sunsets over the caldera and the Aegean sea.  Imerovigli is the part of the island we stayed on, and we got stunning sunset views from our villa while lounging in our private pool.  It’s a win-win because you won’t have to fight with the crowds for a good view.  You can do it in the comfort of your villa.  However, if you aren’t staying in Imerovigli, don’t worry, you can still enjoy the magnificent sunset here. 

Beyonce is that you?!

Do a Life-Changing Flying Dress Photoshoot in Santorini with Teenagers

I recommend doing a flying dress photoshoot if you have teenage girls or young adults.  This photoshoot has become very popular within the last few years.  Especially on the gram’.  I loved doing this photoshoot with my daughters.  It was amazing.  

Doing this photoshoot is one of the most unique things to do in Santorini with teenagers and young adults.  We had a wonderful time. 

Hiring a professional to capture the memories of your time together on vacation is priceless. Wearing these gorgeous super long dresses while looking snatched was amazing.   

This photo shoot was a highlight of our trip. The photographer took us to the best spots in Imerovigli village, but you can also choose other towns.  We did group photos (mother-daughter session), and they took individual photos of us too. 

However, it doesn’t just have to be just with girls, you can do a mother-son photoshoot, you can still wear a beautiful dress and have them wear a nice suit or slacks and button-down shirt.  Those would be amazing as well. 

To say the dresses are gorgeous is an understatement. The company provided the dresses with an abundance of colors to choose from, from light to vibrant hues.  The company we chose to take our photos with is Star and Nina Photography.  Their work is splattered all over Instagram, which is how we found them.  I liked working with them; they were very professional and knew the best photo spots in Santorini.  

For more info click on their website here. 

Eat Your Way through Santorini with Authentic Greek Cuisine 

One of the best things to do in Santorini with teenagers and young adults is eating local Greek food, of course.  We love trying new foods when traveling to different countries.  Getting your teen to try new dishes is the perfect way to experience a new culture.  Eating authentic foods and learning how they prepare, cook, and the history behind their cooking is fun.  They get to learn about the country through experience and eating.  

Teenagers love to eat. 

Some favorite local cuisines to try in Santorini are Moussaka and Lobster Linguini.  Seafood is a big thing here and should be since it’s an island.  

Other Mediterranean foods include mussels, tomatoballs, Tzatziki, Eggplant salad, Gyros, Spinach or Cheese pie. 

We had a scrumptious mezze platter of appetizer sauces, including Tzatziki, Eggplant Salad, Tirokafteri, and Fava from the restaurant Avocado.  

And if you don’t try anything else in Greece, you must try Gyros when in Greece.  Gyro is meat (pork, lamb, chicken) that’s been cooked on a spool, then sliced and put in Pita bread along with Tzatziki sauce, spices, and veggies.  

You may have had one in the US, but it’s nothing like a fresh Gyro in Greece.  It’s so deliciously good!  

Relax on a Sunset Cruise in Santorini with Teenagers and Young Adults

When on an island, you must travel on the water.  Taking a cruise on the gorgeous tranquil waters of Santorini with teenagers is a must thing to do!  It’s one of the most popular things to do in Santorini.  

We took a luxury sunset cruise on a catamaran with Sunset OIA.  The option we chose was for a small group of 20 max.  This was perfect because we weren’t stacked on top of each other. There was enough space for everyone to chill out, layout, and unwind. 

The cruise lasted 5 hours, but the total time was about 7.  They will pick you up from your hotel and drop you back off, which takes up some time.  

The catamaran cruises to the best spots on the island, such as Red and White Beaches and Hot Springs. This is where you’ll get to go snorkeling and swimming. Then finally, you’ll reach Oia, to watch the magnificent sunset.  It’s nothing like watching the sunset while in the middle of the sea.  Plus, seeing a different view of the Santorini cliffs from the sea was breathtaking. 

My daughter is 17, and my stepdaughter is 20, they could chill back and relax, enjoying the stunning caldera views, music, and good vibes.  

Then to top it off, they will feed you a traditional Greek lunch/dinner cooked on the grill.  Plus, they have unlimited soft drinks, beer, and wine onboard. My husband and I started with wine, then changed to beer since it was more potent…lol. 

Click here to see rates and availability for this Sunset Cruise

Take the legendary Hike from Fira to OIA with Teenagers and Young Adults

The hike from Fira to Oia is one of the most adventurous things to do in Santorini with teens and young adults.  The hiking trail is approximately 6 miles, and you will see the villages and striking views along the caldera and sea along the way.  

Taking the hike from Fira to Oia is at the top of the list of things to do in Santorini with teenagers.  And for a good reason, the views you’ll get from this hike are mesmerizing.  Admire the deep blue sea shimmering under the sun, making this a magical experience.  Spend some time marveling at the caldera, captains’ homes, and small churches. 

Taking this hike before the midday sun or near sunset is highly recommended, especially if you’re there in the summer.  When hiking in Santorini with teens, take breaks, and have plenty of water to stay hydrated.  

Bask in the Beauty at Ammoudi Bay

Ammoudi Bay is near the town of Oia.  It’s actually at the base of the town.  Here, you’ll have a picturesque view of small fishing boats, and clear blue-turquoise waters. 

Since we were staying in Fira, we took a taxi to Ammoudi Bay.  The taxi brought us down to the Bay. 

I’m so glad we came there because it is gorgeous.  Ammoudi Bay is a slice of heaven, and the waters are luminous.  Plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops are lined right along the water’s edge.  The area is incredible.

They are known for their seafood in Ammoudi Bay, and you’ll see fresh fish and Lobster on display.  However, the most exciting part was seeing the huge fresh Octopus hanging on a line with the sea as the backdrop.  Plus, being surrounded by gorgeous and massive red cliffs is out-of-this-world. 

Talk about a postcard picture in the flesh. 

Another reason why people come here is to see the “swimming hole”.  To get to the Ammoudi Bay swimming hole, you will have to take a short hike and climb up some rocks to make it to the other side.  Once on the other side, you can jump in the water and have fun. 

Just be aware that it’s a swimming hole and not a beach.  

Unfortunately for us, we were ill-prepared and didn’t have on the proper shoes for climbing.  We were halfway up the rock but came into a bit of a struggle trying to climb over in sandals. 

Needless to say, we didn’t make it over to the swimming hole.  We didn’t want anyone to get injured.  So, we turned around and went back to the restaurant area.  

Tip: Ensure you have on the proper shoes with a good grip to climb up the rocks. Don’t miss partaking in the swimming hole like we did!

Wander around Oia: the most Photographed Village in Santorini! 

Ahhhh…so you’ve officially made it to Oia.  

Oia is the most popular tourist attraction in Santorini.  It’s renowned for its spectacular sunsets, cobalt blue domes, and whitewashed homes dug into the cliffs.  Oia is located in the northern coastal town of Santorini and is one of the most photographed villages ever.

There are gazillions of things to do in Oia with the family, but I’ll only name a few. 

First, you and the teens can leisurely walk through this quaint town of Oia and get lost.  Walk down the tiny alleys and admire the cave houses, vibrant doors, and cobbled streets.  Wander through the main square and admire the chapels, boutiques, and other sites.  Gaze across the caldera and marvel at the famous windmills.  

Don’t miss visiting the Church of Panagia of Platsani at the center of the Oia Caldera Square. It’s a beautiful white church sprinkled with the famous blue colors of Greece with layers of bells and five domes.  The church is dedicated to the Mother of God. 

Additionally, stop for a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants they have available if you get hungry.  Oia has some of the best restaurants in Santorini, from cheap eats to fine-dining. 

However, a visit to Oia won’t be a small feat. 

If you are going to Oia from Ammoudi Bay, you must first climb up the 235+ steps to get there.  Piece of cake right?  Not hardly.  But it’s so worth it!

Swim at the unforgettable Black Sand Beaches in Santorini with Teenagers

So I told the girls that this was a beach day.  I wanted them to be able to enjoy more water/beach time since we are on an island.  I didn’t want to bore them too much with too many museums and historical sites.

Going to an incredible black sand beach in Santorini with teenagers is a fun activity.  Besides being known for its Caldera and striking cliff views, Santorini is also known for its volcanic beaches.  

You’ll love seeing the black volcanic sand stretched along the coast for miles.  However, make sure you have some flip-flops or beach shoes because the blazing sun makes the black sand scorching hot and unbearable to walk on barefoot.  

The Perissa Beach we visited in June was tranquil.  Most of Santorini’s black beaches have restaurants and beach bars around them.  This is a good time to eat lunch, that way, you can lounge on one of the sun beds for FREE after you eat.  We ate at one of the seaside restaurants, and the Greek food was scrumptious.  

Then after you are full and happy, sit back and lounge on the chairs, order yourself a cocktail or two, and the staff will bring it to you.  The teens tagging along can have a yummy cool-down smoothie from the menu as a refresher.  

Besides Perissa Beach, there are several other fabulous black sand beaches in Santorini. Vlychada Beach, Perivolos Beach, and Kamari Beach are the most known. 

Go Shopping for Unique Souvenirs in Santorini with Teenagers

What teenager doesn’t love to going shopping and spending your money?  I know mine does, and finding unique souvenirs in Santorini is a fun thing to do with teens.  Bringing something special from another country back home to share with family and friends is exciting.

There are a ton of souvenirs to shop for all over Santori for those unique items.  

It’s cute walking into a cave store in Oia filled with beachwear and authentic jewelry made with things from the sea.  I love the natural products they sell, such as olive oil soaps, and oils some made from volcanoes. 

Plus, Oia has good snacks to buy, especially dessert.  You know, indulging in Greece’s most well-known dessert, Baklava, you must have it and eat it.

More Things to do in Santorini with teenagers and young adults (if you have time)

Get Cultured by Visiting Ancient Thira with Teenagers

Take a hike to the Ancient Ruins of Thira with your teen for a change of pace.   Learn some history of this 11th Century BC ancient city and take in some of its natural beauty.  While there get breathtaking views at the top of the hill.   

To get there, you can hike up the entire way, drive up to the site or take a taxi, then hike the rest of the way.  Remember you and your family must be careful while visiting the site due to the steep hills and narrow footpaths. 

Learn History through Travel while Visiting the Akrotiri Archaeological Site

Learn about a bit of the history of Thira dating back to the 4th Millenium BC.  An Archaeology site showcasing the history of the first inhabitants nearly 6,000 years ago.  Often known as the Greek Pompeii, the site is well preserved even after being covered in ash due to the volcanic eruption.  

For entry, the tickets are €12.  However, to get more out of visiting the site, take a guided tour with an Archeologist, and they will thoroughly explain the history of how they lived and how the volcano eruption destroyed the city.  Plus, get clarity on the artifacts there, including frescoes, pottery, and more.

Click here for more info about this guided tour  

Catch a Film at the Open Air Theater 

Things to do in Santorini with teenagers are watching a movie at the Open Air Cinema in Kamari. They will love the unique way of seeing a film under the stars and looking at the sky.  It’ll be a different experience for them to watch a movie out in the open air on a lovely summer evening.

The theater is a big part of Greek life, and Kamari has become one of the Best Open Air Cinemas in the World.  It’s open during peak season (May-Oct) only for €10.  Although this Theater is in Greece, the movies they show are in English with Greek subtitles.   

Where to stay in Santorini with teenagers and young adults

Luxury Resort for families

When you think of Santorini, these luxury resorts are sheer examples of traditional Aegean architecture and Greek culture. 

Above Blue Suites

We stayed at the Above Blue Suites.  This luxury villa is in the Imerovigli village high in the Caldera.  You’ll get breath-taking views of the turquoise waters of the Aegean sea.  Since it is the highest point of the caldera cliffs, the colorful sunsets here are astounding.  

We stayed in an Above Blue Villa, with plenty of room for four guests with 1 King bed, 1 Queen Bed, and a loft.  It came with three sitting areas, yes THREE.  Plus, an outdoor private plunge pool on the terrace and a sauna!!!  So once you dip in the pool, warm up in the sauna.  WINNING!!!

Additionally, they provide a mouth-watering hot breakfast delivered to your room every morning.  

Click here to see rates and availability for Above Blue Suites

Absolute Bliss 

It is another highly recommended luxury hotel to stay in.  Absolute Bliss is also in Imerovigli village, hanging on top of the black volcanic rock.  They offer rooms with caldera views, suites, and villas with classic Aegean architecture.  The luxurious villa offers top-notch privacy, with epic caldera views, a private pool on the terrace, an indoor hot tub, and a steam room! 

It’s suitable if you have older teens like mine, but if they’re younger, they may not be able to stay here.  The great thing about staying in Imerovigli village is that it’s much quieter than Oia, yet it’s close to Fira, restaurants, and taverns. 

Click here to see rates and availability for Absolute Bliss

Mid-Range to Budget Hotels for families

Blue Sea Hotel

Blue Sea Hotel beautiful hotel is located in Kamari with a short walk to the famous black beach. It’s a family-friendly hotel that won’t break the bank.  If your family loves staying on the beach, this hotel is in an ideal location. 

This hotel offers various cozy rooms, from standard to family rooms and suites, all featuring a balcony with colorful decor, white furnishings, and modern amenities.  They have three pools and offer a nice spread of continental breakfast.  Plus, there are several restaurants, taverns, and cafes nearby.  Additionally, you’ll get stunning views of the mountains and sea while staying here. 

Click here to see rates for Blue Sea Hotel

White Cave Villas

White Cave Villas is an 11-unit accommodation in Finikia, just outside of Oia.  Here you can enjoy the outdoor pool, and see the awe-inspiring sunsets of Oia.  And this hotel is family-friendly and is in the most popular part of town.  They offer family Suites with an outdoor heated shared pool.  This would be a good choice for families with teenagers, young adults, and the entire family.  

A bonus is that you won’t have to pay the high price of staying in Oia.  It’s cheaper to stay outside of Oia if you prefer this side of the island. 

Click here to see rates and availability for White Cave Villas

How to get around Santorini with teenagers and young adults

Tour Company 

One way to get around Santorini is through a reputable tour company.  When planning my trip to Santorini, I booked the Sunset Cruise with GetYourGuide.  When booking with a tour company, many will offer hotel pick up and drop off for that particular activity. That will save you the headache of figuring out where or how to get there. 

Click here for to see more top activities for Santorini

Your Hotel Accommodation

Another great option for getting around Santorini is your hotel accommodation. They will usually have phone numbers of taxis, cars, and other transportation options. Plus they know the area and can give great information on the best way to get somewhere. 

By Walking

Depending on where you’re staying, you can walk to some of the attractions in Santorini.  Since we stayed in Imerovigli, we could walk to most places.  All you need is a map or your google maps app. LOL.

Rental Car

So many travelers get a rental car and drive around the island themselves.  This is a great option that I kind of wish we did.  I think we could have covered more ground if we had our own transportation.  However, the roads are narrow, and you must be careful when driving in a new city or country.  

ATV

Renting an ATV is another thing I was heavily considering before arriving in Santorini. We love driving ATVs, but it’s usually a “guided” ride. Since we traveled to Santorini for the first time, we decided not to rent an ATV. However, this is a wonderful option for those that are familiar with driving an ATV and want to get to some attractions quicker. Just be careful! 

Taxi or Bus

Taking a taxi is a fail-proof option, but it can be costly. But this is the way to go if you’re in a hurry.  There are also local buses that run frequently and are cheap, around €2 a trip. 

All in all, Santorini is a magical place to travel to with teenagers and young adults. Yes, it is more known as a romantic destination for couples; however, the entire family can enjoy this sensational island too. I hope you found my things to do in Santorini with teenagers helpful. 

Let me know what you think by leaving a comment.    

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