Santorini is known around the world for its whitewashed villages, volcanic landscape and spectacular Caldera views. But from 16–18 October 2026, the island will offer visitors another way to experience its unique scenery: through sport and adventure.
Now in its 12th year, Santorini Experience brings together running and open-water swimming in one of Greece’s most iconic destinations. The event combines athletic challenges with the island’s volcanic terrain, coastline and archaeological heritage, attracting participants from Greece and abroad.
The weekend’s signature event is the 1.5-mile (2.4 km) open-water swimming race, taking place on Saturday, 17 October. Participants start in the waters around the Volcano and swim across the Caldera before finishing at the Old Port of Fira — a route that offers an extraordinary perspective of Santorini from the sea.
Sunday, 18 October, is dedicated to trail running. The programme includes 15K, 10K and 5K races, following routes between Oia and Fira and taking runners across volcanic terrain with panoramic views of the Aegean and Caldera.
The 2026 edition also introduces a new race: the Ancient Thera Run 5K. Taking place in Kamari on Friday, 16 October, the route runs between the sea and mountain at the foot of Ancient Thera, bringing together Santorini’s natural and archaeological landscapes.
With swimming in the Caldera, trail running along the island’s dramatic slopes and a new route inspired by its ancient past, Santorini Experience 2026 offers a distinctive way to discover Santorini — combining sport, nature, history and some of the most spectacular scenery in the Aegean.
