Santorini

Santorini: A Poem in Blue & White

Imagine a breeze from the Aegean, with sea salt and citrus scents in the air. Picture a lazy summer afternoon spent watching the sky blend into the horizon. That's the vibe of Santorini. Check out the guide below to learn more about this stunning island, including places to visit, things to do, and foods to enjoy.

Geography: Santorini is an island known for its colorful cliffs, white villages, and a caldera formed by a volcanic eruption.

Visual Appeal: The island provides stunning views of the caldera, the Aegean Sea, and blue-domed churches.

Atmosphere: Santorini has a dreamlike feel, warm weather, and a sense of history.

Oia: Oia features stunning caldera views, white cube houses, and iconic blue-domed churches. Watching the sunset here is awe-inspiring, as people gather to see the sky turn orange and pink. Oia also has charming streets, art galleries, and boutiques in historic buildings.

Fira: This lively town is bustling with shops, restaurants, and nightlife. It houses the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, with well-preserved frescoes from Akrotiri. Fira offers access to the old port of Skála and the quiet village of Firostefani.

Imerovigli: A quieter village at the caldera’s highest point, it provides stunning views and luxury stays.

Skaros Rock Hike: This hike leads to a promontory with medieval fortress ruins, offering 360-degree views of the caldera, sea, and islands. Couples can enjoy Assyrtiko wine here while watching the sunset.

Pyrgos: A hidden gem with winding streets, many churches, and beautiful island views.

Architecture: Buildings are carved into volcanic rock, painted white, and grouped for protection and insulation.

Caldera Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of the caldera, sea, and sky from every viewpoint on the island.

Other Activities:

Caldera Boat Tour: A popular option to explore Nea Kameni volcano and Palea Kameni’s hot springs.

Nea Kameni Volcano: A hikeable volcanic islet with solidified lava fields and a summit crater for panoramic views.

Palea Kameni Hot Springs: A natural hot spring in a cove, perfect for relaxation.

Thirassia Island: This less developed island shows Santorini’s past, featuring traditional tavernas and stunning views.

Beaches: Unique beaches with red, black, and white sand offer swimming, snorkeling, and diving. There’s something for everyone!

Hiking: A 10 km trail from Firá to Oia along the caldera takes about 3 hours at a leisurely pace. Hikers enjoy breathtaking views of the caldera, villages, and sea while passing chapels and the Monastery of St. Nicholas.

Nightlife: Santorini offers a relaxed nightlife. Enjoy the lit clifftops, lantern paths, and beach bars featuring live music.

Must-Try Dishes: Taste the Greek salad with sweet tomatoes, crisp cucumber, capers, and tangy goat feta. Try fava me koukia, a yellow split pea puree with an earthy flavor. Don’t miss grilled octopus, which has a smoky sweetness.