Santorini, Greece: Travel Guide
Suppose Santorini isn't already on your bucket list of destinations to visit; it's time to revise your travel plans. There are many magical places on earth, but Greece holds a certain mythical feeling, with Santorini being one of the prettiest of all the Greek islands.
Most travelers are drawn to Greece after seeing spectacular images of charming blue and white-washed stone buildings framed by pink bougainvillea and an endless blue ocean. Add a stunning sunset and fresh Mediterranean food and the perfect vacation destination. While all the sun-kissed islands are lovely, Santorini won us over with a beautiful blend of luxury, history, and outdoor activities to discover.
A Little History About Santorini
Santorini, one of the Cyclades islands, is in the Aegean Sea. Fira and Oia are the main towns, about 10 km apart. In the 16th century BC, a volcanic eruption destroyed beautiful Santorini (called Thera back then) and was rebuilt. The dormant but still active volcano has been quiet for a long time. Still, you will hear stories about the volcano and perhaps a few predictions during your travels around Santorini.
Food, Glorious Food
In Santorini, the food is fresh and delicious, with dishes like Greek salads, moussaka, kebabs, pita bread and feta, and many other exotic flavors available everywhere. Spanakopita (spinach, feta, and onions) is a pastry popular with locals and travelers, and it is easy to get addicted to the tasty treat. Souvlaki is a dish you've probably tried before, but we promise it tastes best in Greece. The grilled meat skewers are usually served with tzatziki (a delicious sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, and mint), pita bread, salad, or rice. We were in heaven and feeling healthy on our Mediterranean diet.
There are several Michelin-star restaurants in Greece, most of which are in the capital. An exception is Lycabettus Restaurant in Oia. The scenic setting on a cliff overlooking the bluest ocean highlights the fine dining experience. The menu features seafood, Greek and Mediterranean dishes that are presented in a modern and creative style. Be sure to order a glass of Santorini white wine. Also, look out for Lauda in Oia. It was Oia's first restaurant in the early 70s, and they are devoted to only featuring local, organic food on the menu.
We found the people of Santorini love to cook, eat and socialize, with mealtime being an occasion not to be missed. A short siesta is often taken after lunch and is a tradition we didn't mind adopting.
Hiking on Santorini
One sunny day we set out on the 10-km trail from Fira to Oia. Since we were there in the shoulder season, the temperature was perfect for our long scenic trek around the rim of the beautiful Santorini caldera, plus it wasn't too busy with tourists. We came across a lovely Christian cemetery with areas painted in bright colors and decorated with candles and artifacts.
Fields of wildflowers, donkeys led by locals, awe-inspiring ocean views, and the thrill of walking along an active volcano made this an exciting day. Walking was a big part of every day in Santorini, but this picturesque excursion was one of our favorites.
Other Activities In Santorini
A day out on the blue waters
When you are not soaking up the sun in your hotel swimming pool or dipping your toes in the ocean, there is sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, and diving to enjoy. A luxury boat trip is a beautiful way to compliment your beach days, and who doesn't love a dash of the high life?
Akrotiri
The ruins of a prehistoric village at Akrotiri will thrill history lovers. Despite the major volcanic eruption that destroyed most parts of Akrotiri, there are still frescoes, artifacts, and art that were preserved and rediscovered.
Ancient Thera
The ruins are perched high between Perissa and Kamari beaches. See the remains of a theatre, pagan temples, Christian churches, cemeteries, and baths to glimpse what life was like long ago. Book a private guide if history fascinates you and hear legends like how men once danced naked to honor Apollo during the Terrace of the Festivals.
Profitis Ilias
A 798-meter-high mountain topped with a monastery. It is a hot spot to take in the sunset with glorious views. The monastery dates back to 1711 and is one of the oldest on Santorini and a fine example of Cycladic architecture. Previously the site of a school, today it is home to wine-making monks who take care of the buildings. You can also see a museum displaying rare books and sculptures. The chapel is open to the public, but the general public can't enter the monastery.
Ammoudi Bay
Another favorite spot from our Santorini trip. If you love swimming in cool waters and seafood feasts, this will also be your happy place. Find a little fish taverna and order some grilled octopus freshly caught that day. To reach Ammoudi Bay from Oia, follow the steps down from Oia Castle. Red Beach and Kamari Beach are also little gems for sun-seekers.
The Three Bells of Fira
Likely you've seen the Three Bells of Fira in travel magazines or Instagram feeds. The Three Bells of Fira, aka The Catholic Church of the Dormition, is an iconic sight of Santorini. The Greek Catholic church dating back to the 18th century features three distinctive bells, a blue dome, and a wow-worthy backdrop.
Castle of Agios Nikolaos
Another popular site is the Castle of Agios Nikolaos in Oia, which is especially crowded around sunset. It's easy to see why when you get there and are blown away by the spectacular views. Turkish invaders, pirates, and nobles have passed through the castle over the centuries, and we imagine they were as impressed with the sunsets as the many tourists who gather here to see it every day were. If castles are your thing, there are several more to discover on Santorini, including Pyrgos, Akrotiri, and Emporio.
Greek Wine Tasting
All this sightseeing can make a couple of travelers thirsty. Greek wine is outstanding, although it's often overshadowed by Italian and French wines that are so famous. If you don't believe us book a wine tasting tour that will take you around the island, bypassing lovely wineries. Or you can make your way to a winery with a view for a wine tasting followed by a meal. There is also a wine museum in Santorini that offers tours and tastings.
Shopping in Santorini
It is hard to resist, with Greek artwork in iconic shades of blue and white, evil eye keepsakes, and chic jewelry stores tempting you at every corner. In addition, clothing, shoes, and accessories ideal for the heat are often on display outside quaint shops to lure you in.
Where To Stay In Santorini
The main accommodation areas in Santorini are Fira, Oia, Firostefani and Imerovigli. There is something in every budget range from luxury cave hotels to private homes for rent, guest houses, villas, apartments, and studio suites. We stayed in a lovely, comfortable Airbnb with everything we needed, including lots of space. Check out our video here if you are curious about where we stayed in Oia.
When To Visit Santorini
With a warm Mediterranean climate, Santorini has a pleasant climate all year round. July, August, and September are the hottest months contrasting with December, January, and February, which are the coldest. At this time of year, you can expect temperatures to be between10 degrees Celsius to 18 degrees Celsius.
More Highlights Of Santorini
Buy souvenirs for friends and family at the non-profit Santorini Arts Factory.
Sample cocktails at a chic bar in Oia
Get some reading material at Atlantis Bookshop in Oia, one of the best bookstores in the world, according to National Geographic.
Take photos of Akrotiri Lighthouse.
Find a spa for a few blissful hours of pampering.
Spend the day exploring little churches dotted all over the island
Visit Skaros Rock which juts out to the azure blue Aegean Sea
Ride the cable car that links the port and town of Thera
Getting There
Santorini has an international airport, so it's easy to catch a flight from many main destinations. But if you have time on the way there or back, we recommend you grab a ferry. The trip is four to 10 hours, depending on the company you go with and where you are headed.. Arriving at the port at night and seeing the lights illuminating your dreamy destination is a lovely experience.