When I arrived in Santorini, I didn’t expect to find much of a nightlife.

So I was pleasantly surprised when I found that the island had a lot to offer.

Since I was staying in Oia, my pickings were limited, but that didn’t stop a local from pointing me to the best bar in town, Hassapiko.

When he showed it to me, it was just an ice cream parlor, but at night, they transformed it into one of the coolest cocktail bars on the island. 

As a solo traveler, it can be intimidating to head out for a night out alone, but I quickly made friends with tons of locals and a group of girls visiting for a bachelorette party.

The only downside to the night was getting in trouble for dancing—apparently in Greece there’s a rule that during COVID there can be no dancing in bars.

Hopefully that rule is or will quickly become outdated this summer. 

Below you’ll find some answers to frequently asked questions, plus a list of the best things to do in Santorini at night.

I hope this helps you plan the ultimate night out on your next trip to Greece!

Does Santorini have a nightlife?

Does Santorini have a nightlife

Everyone recognizes Santorini as the most romantic island in the Cyclades, but it’s got lots of beach clubs, cocktail bars, and clubs perfect for a fun night out.

What is the liveliest part of Santorini?

What is the liveliest part of Santorini

If you’re traveling solo, or just want to end up in the most happening spot in Santorini, book your stay in Fira.

It’s the capital of Santorini, and has a really cool vibe with all its clubs, bars, restaurants, and shopping.

Is Santorini Safe at Night?

Is Santorini Safe at Night

As a solo female traveler, I never felt unsafe in Santorini at night, but did exercise caution walking home alone in the evenings.

Best Things to Do in Santorini at Night

Best Things to Do in Santorini at Night

1. Watch the Famous Oia Sunset

There are tons of gorgeous spots to watch the sunset in Santorini, but the most stunning views are in Oia.

These are some of my go-to spots to catch the sunset while I’m in Oia:

Local’s Tip: Claim your spot early, as people will arrive hours ahead of the sunset to claim a good place during the summer months.



2. Take a Sunset Cruise

There’s nothing more romantic than catching Santorini’s famous sunset from the water.

There are tons of boat tours to choose from, but I think the sunset cruises might end up being my favorite water activity here.

It’s really gorgeous catching views of Santorini from the boat, especially when the sky starts to turn pink.


Check out some of the most popular Santorini sunset cruises!


3. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

One of my favorite things about Greece is all the delicious Mediterranean food available.

It’s basically a sin not to enjoy some local delicacies like feta, Greek salad, moussaka, and of course, Santorini wine. 

These are some of my favorite spots on the island to indulge in the local cuisine:



4. Go Bar Hopping

After dinner, why not indulge in a bit of bar hopping to really take in the local vibe?

I love chatting up locals, and tourists at popular watering holes. It’s a great way to make friends, especially while traveling solo.

Obviously, if you are solo, stick to a one or two drink limit, and be smart about your surroundings when you go home. 

These are some of the most popular bars in Santorini:



5. Listen to Live Music

Going out to listen to live music while traveling is easily one of the coolest activities to do while traveling.

You’ll get a feel for the locals, plus maybe even discover a new band or type of music you love.

And if you’re lucky, you may even get to dance a little!

I didn’t get to go out to listen to live music while I was in town, but I’ve got these spots at the top of my Santorini bucket list the next time I’m in town:



6. Go on a Sunset Hike

Okay, so I’ve never been much of a hiker, but for these views of the sunset, I’d happily hike a little.

Obviously, you won’t want to be on the trails when it gets dark, so I’d suggest doing a late afternoon hike and then going into Oia for dinner and drinks. 


Check out one of these popular nighttime hiking tours!


7. Check Out Some Greek Theatre

Okay, so seeing the Greek Wedding Show isn’t exactly the same as watching the film My Big Fat Greek Wedding, but it’s just as much fun.

It’s an interactive Greek comedy show that will have you laughing, dancing, and even tipsy by the end.

It will be a night you won’t soon forget when you join the Papadopoulos family. 


RSVP to the Greek Wedding Show to guarantee entry!


8. Hang at a Winery

Who doesn’t love the combo of a killer sunset with a glass of vino in hand?

I know hitting up one of Santorini’s wineries at sunset is high on my to-do list the next time I’m on the island with friends.

The best part is it’s technically an educational evening because you’re sampling local wines and learning about how they’re made.


Head to one of Santorini’s many wineries for an early evening tasting complete with views of the sunset.


9. Catch a Film Under the Stars

One of my favorite things to do during the summer is catch a film under the stars. 

It’s such a magical experience, especially if it’s a classic old Hollywood film.

While you’re in Santorini, head to the Open Air Cinema Kamari to catch an array of classic and just-released cinema.

Fun Fact: They sell nachos, popcorn, and cocktails so you can make the most of your evening.



10. Go Dancing in Fira

If you want to hang in the most happening part of Santorini, head to Fira. 

Full disclosure, while I was on the island, the island had a no dancing rule because of COVID, so I’ve yet to actually get to go dancing in Santorini.

According to locals, these are some of the best dance clubs on the island, including some of these hotspots:



11. Grab Cocktails with a View

Starting off the evening with a sunset cocktail, or just any cocktail with a view, is a must while traveling. 

It’s a great way to chat up locals, and maybe even get a bit of insight into the neighborhood, along with some killer local recommendations for places you may not know about. 

Not to mention, it’s an opportunity to take some truly stunning photos of social media. 

These are spots I can’t wait to enjoy the view from with a cocktail in hand:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5vFno9Ab70

12. Go Horseback Riding at Sunset

While you’re in town, take a once in a lifetime horseback ride through the Caldera of Santorini.

This quickly moved to the top of my Greece bucket list after a friend told me about their experience.

Apparently, it’s super romantic, has stunning views, and has volcanic views.


Book one of these popular horseback riding tours!

Final Thoughts

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI GREECE AT NIGHT 2

I hope your night out in Santorini will be as memorable as mine. 

Let me know in the comments below what you’re most looking forward to checking out, and as always, let me know if you discover a place that deserves a spot on this list. 

I’m always looking for cool alternative places to check out!


Book one of these popular Santorini tours while you’re exploring the island!

 

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