Santorini Travel Guide
Picture this: you're standing on a cliffside terrace, sipping a glass of local wine as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange. This is Santorini, a slice of paradise in the Aegean Sea that captures the hearts of anyone who visits.
Santorini is not your average island getaway. It's a place where luxury meets rugged landscapes, charming villages, and where every sunset leaves you in awe. It's no wonder Santorini is one of the most popular destinations with our clients.
What I love most about Santorini is its unique landscape. The island is actually a volcanic caldera, formed from a massive eruption thousands of years ago. This is evident in the island's rugged cliffs, black sand beaches, and dramatic coastline.
But what you may not realize is Santorini isn't just about the stunning views; it's also a food and wine lover's paradise. The island is home to some of the finest vineyards in Greece, producing delicious wines that are best enjoyed against the backdrop of a Santorini sunset.
Santorini Travel Guide
In this travel guide, I'll be sharing my top tips for making the most out of your time in Santorini. From the best luxury hotels to the top restaurants and activities, I'll help you plan the perfect Santorini getaway. So grab a glass of wine, kick back, and let's explore all that this beautiful island has to offer.
Best Things to Do in Santorini:
Visiting the Village of Pyrgos
Pyrgos, a village off the beaten path in Santorini, is a charming spot that feels like a step back in time. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight bathes everything in a warm glow. Wander the narrow streets, lined with classic white houses and those iconic blue-domed churches. Don't miss climbing up to the medieval castle for stunning panoramic views or grabbing a bite at a local taverna for some authentic Greek flavors. Whether you're into history, photography, or just seeking some peace, Pyrgos has a little something for everyone, making it a must-visit spot on your Santorini itinerary.
2. Hiking from Fira to Oia
For an unforgettable experience in Santorini, hit the trail from Fira to Oia. This hike offers some of the best views of the island, with the caldera cliffs on one side and the endless blue sea on the other. The best times to go are early in the morning or in the evening to catch the sunset in Oia. Along the way, you'll pass through quaint villages, vineyards, and get a taste of traditional Cycladic architecture. Take your time, stop for a bite at local cafes, and soak in the beauty of Santorini from a whole new perspective. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking for an adventure, this hike is a must-do in Santorini.
3. Cruising through the Caldera
Picture yourself on a boat, cruising through the stunning caldera waters of Santorini. The best time to go is in the late afternoon or early evening, as the sun starts to set, painting the cliffs and villages in golden hues. As you sail, you'll see the volcanic cliffs up close, with their colorful layers of rock, and discover hidden beaches and caves along the way. Some cruises even stop at the volcanic hot springs, where you can take a refreshing dip in the warm waters. Whether you're on a luxury yacht or a traditional boat, cruising through the caldera offers breathtaking views and unforgettable moments in Santorini.
3. Visit Santo Winery
A visit to Santo Winery in Santorini is a must for wine lovers. Located in Pyrgos village, the winery offers stunning views of the caldera and the sea. You can enjoy a wine tasting session with a variety of local wines, including the famous Assyrtiko. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, happy to share insights about winemaking on the island. After the tasting, explore the winery's museum and relax at their restaurant with some delicious Greek food and more wine, of course!
4. Schedule a Professional Photoshoot
Santorini is most know for its picturesque, instrammable views. Rest assured, you are going to come home with a camera full of photos but we hightly recommend scheduling a photoshoot with a professional to capture those must have spots with you in them. You won’t regret that!
Best Places to Stay in Santorini
Canaves Oia Suites
If you're looking for a luxurious escape in Oia, Santorini, Canaves Oia Suites is the place to be. Nestled amidst the stunning beauty of Santorini's Caldera and the sparkling Aegean Sea, this hotel offers a perfect blend of elegance and relaxation. With breathtaking views, luxurious suites, and top-notch service, Canaves Oia Suites promises a holiday experience you'll never forget.
Katikies Santorini
Katikies luxury hotel in Oia, Santorini, is famous for its top-notch services, cozy vibes, and romantic setting. It's a place where luxury meets nature, offering guests a chance to indulge in pure luxury. It's no wonder it's considered one of the best luxury hotels in Santorini.
Mystique
Perched on the cliffs of the Caldera, Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea that surrounds Santorini. Popular for honeymoons and romantic getaways. Connected by cobblestone pathways, the hotel's 41 suites and villas, two swimming pools, Elios Spa, and gym all offer panoramic sea views towards the island's active volcano.
Santorini Travel Tips
1. Plan Early
We always tell our clients the number one tip is plan ahead. Santorini is a popular destination, especially during the peak summer months. It is important to book your accommodations and experiences well in advance to secure the best options and pricing.
2. Explore Beyond Oia and Fira
We LOVE Oia and Fira but our favorite thing we tell our clients to do is explore farther out. One of our favorites is
Imerovigli. Imerovigli, often called the "balcony of the Aegean," is a charming village perched on the highest point of the Caldera cliffs in Santorini. It's known for its jaw-dropping panoramic views of the volcano, the caldera, and the Aegean Sea. Compared to the busier towns of Oia and Fira, Imerovigli offers a more peaceful atmosphere. You'll find classic Cycladic architecture here, with its signature whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and winding pathways. Take your time exploring the cute shops, cafes, and restaurants, or simply kick back and soak in the stunning scenery. Don't miss Skaros Rock, a historic castle ruin that provides an amazing spot to watch the sunset. If you want to stay outside of the hustle and bustle of Santorini, we recommend the Grace Hotel in Imerovigli.
3. Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
The sun in Santorini is no joke. It can be intense, especially during the summer months. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade when necessary.
4. Be prepared for crowds
Santorini can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and cruise ship arrivals. Plan your visits to popular attractions accordingly. Pack patience and be prepared and just remember how blessed you are to be on this beautiful island.
Greek Etiquette
Tipping in Santorini, as in the rest of Greece, is generally appreciated but not mandatory. Here are some tipping etiquette guidelines to keep in mind:
Restaurants: It's common to leave a tip of 5-10% of the total bill at restaurants, especially if you received good service. In tourist areas, a service charge may already be included in the bill, so check before tipping.
Cafes and Bars: For a small coffee or drink, rounding up the bill is appreciated. For larger orders, a tip of 5-10% is customary.
Hotels: Tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, is customary. A few euros for each service is appreciated.
Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory, but rounding up the fare is common practice.
Tour Guides and Drivers: For guided tours or transportation services, a tip of 5-10% of the total cost is appreciated.
Spas and Salons: Tipping at spas and salons is common, with 5-10% of the total cost being a standard tip.
When in doubt, observe what locals do or ask if a service charge is included. Tipping should be a gesture of appreciation for good service, so feel free to adjust the amount based on your experience.
Ready to experience the magic of Santorini? Let your favorite travel advisor turn your dreams into reality! From finding the perfect cliffside villa to recommending the best sunset spots and hidden gems, your TH advisor will take care of all the details so you can focus on making memories. Maybe somewhere else in Europe is where you are dying to go, then we can take care of that, too.
Don’t forget to check out our blog post on Europe Travel Essentials if you’re heading to Europe anytime sooon.
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