A Place Unlike Any Other
If you’ve never been to Santorini, chances are it’s at least on your travel bucket list. Part of the Cyclades, this legendary island on the southernmost end of the archipelago boasts whitewashed cave houses backed by blue-domed churches that spill down the rim of an ancient volcanic crater. It’s a place countless travelers dream of visiting.
If you’re traveling to Greece, Santorini should definitely be one of your stops; however we recommend making a trip to Santorini all on its own to truly immerse yourself in this beautiful place.
Discover some of the most welcoming people on Earth, extraordinary beaches, ancient ruins from the prehistoric era, incredible cuisine featuring aromatic Mediterranean flavors paired with fine local wines, jaw-dropping sunsets and so much more among these unforgettable things to do in Santorini.
Visit Some of the World’s Most Unique Beaches
Santorini is renowned for its colorful beaches, including the very unique Kokkini Beach, or Red Beach as its more often referred to. It looks as if it should be sitting on another planet.
Set at the base of dramatic, fiery-red cliffs that soar high over azure Mediterranean waters, this colorful stretch of sand is a result of the surrounding iron-rich black and red lava rocks that came from Thira’s ancient volcanic activity. The volcano erupted in 1450 BC and essentially shaped this entire island.
The majority of Santorini’s beaches are made up of black sand with tiny volcanic pebbles, like Perissa, which stretches for more than four miles, and Perivolos. Cape Columbo is one of the most isolated, peaceful beaches on Santorini, surrounded by wild landscape. You’re likely to find your own ideal stretch to enjoy by simply driving around the island.
Stroll Through Oia
Oia is the idyllic village you’ve probably seen in so many of those Santorini images. It’s renowned for its whitewashed houses and blue shutters as one of the most photographed spots on the planet. It sits atop a dramatic cliff boasting stunning vistas over the volcano of Palia and Nea Kameni.
Take time to stroll the maze of narrow alleyways and streets, popping into some of the many art galleries and boutiques before relaxing with a drink at one of the many taverns. One absolute must-do during your time here is to catch a sunset from Oia. It’s sure to be one of the magical moments you’ll ever experience, especially if you’re there outside of the busy summer months.
If you have the funds, Oia is home to one of the most luxurious small hotels in the world: Katikies. From here you can take in those breathtaking views while being waited on hand and foot. Let’s just say it adds to the experience.
For travelers, it may be good to give some thought into what the best islands to visit are. Here is a list of the top island destinations around the world.
Enjoy a Meal at Ammoudi Fish Tavern
For an unforgettable meal, exceptional service and extraordinary views, be sure to head to Ammoudi Fish Tavern at Amoudi Bay, which sits just below Oia village. Make your way down the steep, winding hill and you’ll discover a breathtaking sight tucked among the dramatic cliffs.
Although there is no beach, this is one of the best spots for swimming on the island. After taking a dip, enjoy a drink and dine on dishes like steamed mussels and lobster. The friendly smiles you’ll get while being served make that mouth-watering food all the better.
Stay at Kalestesia Suites for Extraordinary Vistas and Much More
As Oia and Fira tend to get quite busy, if you’re looking for a more peaceful place to stay with to-die-for views, Kaestesia Suites offers it all and then some. Located in Akrotiri, perched in an elevated position on a hilltop, it sits in a quiet area overlooking the caldera and provides some of the most jaw-dropping vistas you’ve ever seen.
This luxurious hotel oozes opulence yet it’s affordable for the average person. In fact, you’d probably pay a lot more per night for a rundown room in Manhattan with no view. Enjoy an oasis of tranquility, freshly prepared meals made with organic ingredients, and perhaps best of all, service that will make you feel as if you’re royalty.
Walk the Trail Between Fira and Oia
This trek is likely to be a highlight of your time on Santorini. The approximately 7.5-mile walk one way brings some of the most spectacular views of the island along the cliffs. If you aren’t up for a long journey, you may want to take the bus or a taxi to either Oia or Fira, and then walk back to your vehicle.
Along the way you’ll see the glistening lagoon, a number of picturesque churches and the endless expanse of the sapphire-hued sea.
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Wine Tasting
Santorini is home to a host of wineries and vineyards, many of which offer tastings and tours. You definitely don’t want to leave without having sampled the island’s finest grapes. There are sunset wine tours available as well, where you’ll be taken to several traditional wineries and taste more than a dozen different wines.
The finale includes sipping your favorite while watching the island’s famous sunset.
Sunset Sail
There may be no better way to cap off this bucket list experience than by taking a sunset sail. There are multiple outfitters available for enjoying a cruise around this postcard-perfect island, enjoying awe-inspiring caldera views while gliding across the sparkling waters of the Aegean Sea.
Most include visits to a hot spring as well as beaches for swimming or snorkeling — and, of course, the chance to take in one of the most incredible sunsets on the planet.