23 of the Best Things to Do in Santorini, Greece, with Disability-Friendly Options
This site contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Associates Program. At no additional cost to you, I may receive a commission from these links. I only make recommendations based on my experience. See my Disclosure Policy for more info.
Santorini, with its iconic blue-domed churches, dramatic clifftop villages, and breathtaking sunsets, is one of Greece’s most spectacular destinations.
While the island’s traditional architecture and terrain can present challenges for travelers with mobility needs, there are many ways to experience its magic.
After touring this Greek island with my family, one of which had recently had knee surgery, I planned our trip with this in mind due to her mobility limitations.
The following things to do in Santorini guide includes accessibility information to help all visitors plan their perfect Santorini adventure and get a better sense of what’s possible for them.
Scenic Views of Santorini
1. Watch the Sunset from Oia
⭐ Mobility-Friendly
The world-famous Oia sunset is a must-see experience! It’s touted as one of the most amazing views in the world, and I have to say, I agree.
While the main viewing areas near the castle ruins involve some walking on uneven paths and fending off crowds of people, there are accessible spots along the main pedestrian street where you can enjoy spectacular sunset views.
Arrive early (2+ hours before sunset—yes, I am serious, it is an Insta-hot spot) to secure a good viewing spot.
2. Explore Fira’s Caldera Views
⭐ Mobility-Friendly
Fira’s main pedestrian street provides breathtaking caldera views with fairly flat walking surfaces.
Many shops, restaurants, and cafes along this path have step-free access.
The Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral and the Catholic Cathedral are both accessible landmarks with sweeping views.
3. Hike the Fira to Oia Trail
⚠️ Limited Accessibility
Okay, I’m listing this as ‘limited’ because you aren’t required to do the whole 6.5-mile trail, but if you do at least some of it, you’re in for some amazing views.
At a leisurely pace, it’ll take around 3 hours so definitely not for everyone.
However, if you’re able to, the best time of day to do this hike is in the afternoon, beginning in Fira and ending in Oia for the sunset.
Good walking shoes and a water bottle are a must; they’re some of my Santorini packing essentials!
4. Sunset Dinner
⭐ Mobility-Friendly
Ending your day with dinner at one of the many restaurants with spectacular sunset views is one of the most epic things to do in Santorini.
Hotels with restaurants are likely going to be more accessible than stand-alone restaurants. It’s best to inquire with the particular restaurant to ensure their accessibility features.
My family and I went to Fanari in Fira which was pretty accessible, but may have some steps.
Meanwhile, the Pelekanos Restaurant in Oia had us climbing steep steps to reach the restaurant, which wasn’t very accessible and gave my mother some issues.
Beaches & Water Activities
5. Relax at Kamari Beach
⭐ Mobility-Friendly
Kamari is a long stretch of beach with dark gray or black sand.
It offers numerous loungers, bars, and restaurants. Water sports and beach volleyball are also available. Additionally, it features an outdoor cinema that has been voted one of the best in Europe.
Kamari is noted as having the best accessibility on the island, with a paved beachfront promenade, accessible tavernas, and some beach areas that can accommodate mobility aids.
Several beach bars rent umbrellas and have accessible facilities.
6. Visit Perissa Beach
⭐ Mobility-Friendly
Another black sand beach with good accessibility features, including paved access routes, accessible restaurants, and beach services.
The long stretch of organized beach area makes it easier to find suitable spots to sunbathe from.
If you’re into beach parties, some of the black sand beaches host them, so check their event calendars before visiting and add it to your what to do in Santorini, Greece list!
7. Explore Red Beach (Kokkini Paralia)
⚠️ Not Accessible
While famous for its red cliffs and unique landscape, Red Beach requires a 10-minute hike down an uneven, rocky path and is not suitable for those with mobility challenges.
My mother had so much trouble that she and I turned back, so it definitely wasn’t one of my favorite things to do in Santorini.
My aunt and cousin continued on but said while beautiful, it is a beach with a few umbrellas and sunbeds, but no bar. So, be sure to bring your own food, drinks, and sunscreen!
Consider viewing it from a boat tour or visiting nearby accessible beaches instead.
8. Boat Tour Around the Island
⭐ Mobility-Friendly
Several tour operators offer accessible boat trips around Santorini.
Look for boats with wheelchair access, accessible bathrooms, and assistance boarding.
These tours provide unique perspectives of the caldera and access to swimming spots that might otherwise be unreachable.
9. Catamaran Sunset Cruise
⭐ Mobility-Friendly
Many catamaran operators can accommodate passengers with mobility needs.
These tours typically include dinner, swimming stops, and sunset viewing from the water, offering a completely different perspective of the island.
While my family and I didn’t take a boat or catamaran tour, it is one of the things I regret not doing. I was trying to see Santorini in 3 days on a budget, so I chose to focus on the beaches—lesson learned!
Cultural & Historical Sites
10. The Akrotiri Archaeological Site
⭐ Mobility-Friendly
This well-preserved Minoan Bronze Age settlement has been made fully accessible with paved pathways, ramps, and a modern protective canopy, which also helps keep you out of the heat!
The site museum is also wheelchair accessible, making this one of the most inclusive cultural attractions on the island!
This was also my favorite thing to do on this Greek island, as I’m a huge history nerd! Visiting this site alone made me feel it was worth visiting Santorini!
It’s similar to Pompeii in that the settlement was preserved in ash by a volcanic eruption.
Admission to visit Akrotiri is €20 and allows you to tour the archaeological site at your own pace with a skip-the-line e-ticket.
Alternatively, you can opt for an audioguide tour.
11. The Museum of Prehistoric Thera
⭐ Mobility-Friendly
Located in Fira, this museum houses artifacts from Akrotiri and is fully accessible with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
It provides excellent context for understanding Santorini’s ancient history, and I highly recommend you pair it with a trip to Akrotiri to get a well-rounded idea of the ancient history of Santorini.
12. Tour a Winery
⭐ Mobility-Friendly
Several wineries on Santorini offer accessible facilities, including Santo Winery, which is one of the most famous and most accessible wineries on the island.
Santo Winery features paved pathways, accessible tasting areas, and stunning sunset views.
For a list of wineries that can accommodate wheelchairs and have accessible facilities, check out this article from Santorini View.
Because we were on a budget with limited time, my family and I didn’t tour a winery. Honestly, they’d rather have the wine than the tour, so it didn’t make sense for us to spend the money. However, I’ve heard from others who have enjoyed the tours!
If you follow my 4 day Santorini itinerary, you can certainly make time for it!
13. Explore Ancient Thira
⚠️ Not Accessible
Ancient Thira is an ancient city situated on a ridge of Messavouno mountain, which rises 360 meters (1181 feet) high.
It was named after Theras, the legendary ruler of the island, and was inhabited from the 9th century BC until 726 AD.
It is not mobility-friendly due to its location on a steep hilltop and the uneven, rocky terrain within the archaeological site.
14. The Archeological Museum of Thera
⭐ Mobility-Friendly
I had intended to visit the Archaeological Museum, but it was closed on the day I was free.
However, if you’re luckier than I, it houses a lot of treasures from the prehistoric community of Akrotiri.
But, the majority of Akrotiri frescoes and well-known objects are kept in the Prehistoric Museum of Thera, so if you can only pick one, you’ll at least get to see something from Akrotiri.
15. See the Three Bells of Fira
⚠️ Limited Accessibility
The Catholic Church of Koimisi Tis Theotokou features the iconic Three Bells of Fira, a location popular on Instagram.
Known for its vibrant blue dome, the three bells, and breathtaking caldera views, unfortunately this famous sight isn’t fully mobility-friendly.
While the main viewpoint is fairly easy to reach by car or taxi from Fira, the area around the bells has uneven terrain and steps, which can be difficult for wheelchair users or those with mobility aids.
16. Visit St. John the Baptist Cathedral
⚠️ Limited Accessibility
Built in the early 1800s, the history of St. John the Baptist Cathedral dates even further back. It symbolizes Santorini’s diocese, established in 1204.
It features a beautiful mix of Baroque architecture and traditional Santorini style.
St. John the Baptist Cathedral isn’t particularly mobility-friendly due to its location on a cliffside with numerous steps and uneven terrain.
Unique Experiences
17. Take the Cable Car in Fira
⭐ Mobility-Friendly
The cable car connecting Fira to the old port is fully accessible and offers a unique way to experience the dramatic cliff faces.
The ride itself is an attraction, providing stunning views during the journey.
However, be aware that with cruise ships arriving and departing throughout the day, it can be challenging to get back up once you’re down in Old Harbor.
This is because all the cruisers are in a hurry to return to their boats. Therefore, if you’re taking the cable car, it’s essential to be flexible with your time.
18. Walk the Karavolades Stairs
⚠️ Not Accessible
If you have the ability to, you can walk down to the Old Harbor via the Karavolades Stairs to see a small neighborhood filled with restaurants, tavernas, and sea views.
However, be aware that the stairs are very winding and slippery, likely due to the presence of donkey dung.
Walking the 588 stairs is a challenge and should only be an option for those in good physical condition. We didn’t even attempt it because it would have been hard on my mom’s knees.
19. Sip Cocktails Over the Caldera
⭐ Mobility-Friendly
If you want a genuinely magical experience, I highly recommend spending a night in Fira as it was one of my favorite things to do in Santorini.
The vibe is great during the day and at night, but in the evening, it becomes more lively with energetic bars and music. My cousin and I went out for a girls’ night, and we really enjoyed it!
We went to the Tropical Bar, and I only recall a few steps, so it’s fairly accessible. However, there are tons of bars, so you’ll likely be able to find one without any if needed.
At night, fog rolls in from the water. It’s a mesmerizing and slightly eerie sight!
Souvenir Shopping
20. Visit Plateia Theotokopoulou (Theotokopoulou Square)
⭐ Mobility-Friendly
Plateia Theotokopoulou (Theotokopoulou Square), Fira’s main square, is bordered by numerous small streets bustling with people and shops. It is also the largest town in Santorini, well-known for its vibrant atmosphere.
The area has many level surfaces and offers a chance to shop for local products, including jewelry, souvenirs, and clothing. Many shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants are accessible at street level or with minimal stairs.
If you don’t enjoy shopping, consider skipping this one from my list of things to do in Santorini.
21. Stroll the Streets of Oia
⚠️ Limited Accessibility
Oia is a charming place to stroll around, browse a souvenir shop, take some photos, and enjoy a meal.
Do note that you have to walk it as the narrow streets mean cars cannot enter the main sections. Also, there are often steps up or down into stores.
Day Trips & Excursions
22. Hot Springs Boat Trip
⚠️ Limited Accessibility
While the boat ride to the volcanic hot springs is accessible, the actual springs require swimming or wading in open water, which may not be suitable for all mobility levels.
However, the boat trip itself offers beautiful views and can be enjoyed without entering the water.
23. Volcano Island (Nea Kameni) Tour
⚠️ Not Accessible
This active volcano requires significant hiking on rough volcanic terrain and is not suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Consider enjoying views of the volcano from accessible boat tours instead.
Accessibility Tips for Santorini
Getting Around
- Private Transportation: Hire a private driver or accessible taxi for maximum flexibility
- Rental Cars: Several agencies offer hand-control vehicles with advance booking
- Local Buses: KTEL buses have some accessible vehicles, but service can be limited, and as it’s the public transport can be pretty crowded during the high season
- Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels offer accessible transfer services
For more details on how to get around Santorini, read my Santorini travel guide.
General Accessibility Notes
- Santorini features narrow, cobblestone streets that can be challenging and slippery to walk on, so it’s best to wear sneakers with grip to lessen the chance of falling or slipping
- Many restaurants and shops are built into cliff faces with steps
- Weather can affect accessibility as paths can get even more slippery when wet
- Inform restaurants, hotels, and attractions about accessibility needs when making reservations
Recommended Accessible Areas
- Fira: Best overall accessibility with paved pedestrian areas
- Kamari: Excellent beach accessibility and flat terrain
- Airport Area: Modern facilities with good accessibility
- Newer Hotel Areas: Often built with accessibility standards in mind
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Santorini, Greece
Santorini’s breathtaking beauty is accessible to everyone with proper planning.
While some of the island’s most iconic experiences may require alternative approaches for those with mobility challenges, the stunning views, rich culture, and warm hospitality can be enjoyed by all.
The key is planning ahead, communicating your needs clearly, and being open to discovering the island’s magic in your own unique way.
FAQs
What can you do for free in Santorini?
Watch the sunset, view the caldera, hike the Fira to Oia trail, the beaches (unless you want to get a sunbed or umbrella), walking the Karavolades stairs, window shopping in Plateia Theotokopoulou, and strolling the streets of Oia.
Related Santorini Travel Guides
- A Useful Santorini Travel Guide: Tips for First-Timers
- What to Wear in Santorini: Greek Island Getaway Packing Guide
- Santorini in 4 Days: Affordable Itinerary for Multi-Generational Families
- 23 Awesome Things to Do in Santorini + Mobility-Friendly Options
- Where to Stay in Santorini: 8 Key Areas for First-Timer Visitors
- How Many Days In Santorini? A Simple Guide For First-Timers
- Is Santorini Worth Visiting? 14 Pros and Cons for Travelers
- Ultimate 3 Day Santorini Itinerary on a Budget
- Is the Akrotiri Archaeological Site Worth Visiting? Visitor’s Guide to Greece’s “Pompeii”
Want to remember this? Pin this 23 Awesome Things to Do in Santorini + Disability-Friendly Options article to your favorite Pinterest board!
