Discover Santorini – A Mediterranean Paradise

Santorini is one of Greece's most famous islands on the Aegean Sea. Known for its stunning sunsets, white buildings, and crystal-clear waters, you won't be wrong to describe it as a Mediterranean paradise.

The island's uniform buildings, with some blue domes that appear strategically located, offer a charming appearance that appeals to one's senses.

Whether you're drawn to its pristine beaches or exquisite wine, Santorini has something special for you. Here, we'll explore the key highlights of this beautiful island, guiding you through its charming villages, inviting beaches, exquisite wines, and wonderful places to dine.

Charming Villages

Santorini's villages are a significant part of its charm. The island's capital, Fira, is lively, with great nightlife, shopping, and stunning views. Walking through its narrow streets, you'll see a mix of old and new buildings with a similar theme.

Oia is the most famous village, best known for its sunsets. Located at the northern tip of the island, Oia's blue-domed churches and white houses are a beautiful sight. The village also has art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes with sea views that elevate its charm.

For a more traditional experience, visit Pyrgos. This village is on a hill, offering amazing views and old buildings. You can explore the ruins of the Venetian castle once the island's administrative center and walk through its narrow streets to experience its full charm.

Beautiful Beaches

Santorini's volcanic past has given it unique beaches. These beaches are different from the usual sandy ones. The Red Beach is one of the most famous. It gets its name from the red cliffs standing against the blue water. It's a must-visit for its dramatic look and clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Kamari Beach is another popular spot. It's known for its black sand and lively atmosphere. The beach has sunbeds, umbrellas, and many taverns where you can enjoy fresh seafood. Kamari also offers water sports like windsurfing and jet skiing.

For a quieter time, visit Perissa Beach. It has a long stretch of black sand and a relaxed vibe. It's great for families or anyone looking to unwind. The beach is lined with cafes and bars where you can enjoy a drink while watching the waves.

Exquisite Wines

Santorini is also known for its wines. The island's volcanic soil and climate are great for growing grapes like Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani. These grapes make some of the best wines in Greece.

Visiting a winery is a must to fully appreciate the island's wines. Santo Wines, near Pyrgos, offers wine tastings with views of the caldera. Their Assyrtiko wine is crisp and refreshing. Gaia Wines is another good choice. Located near Kamari Beach, you can tour the winery and taste its best wines.

Many wineries also offer tours where you can learn about the winemaking process. Pair your wine tasting with local dishes like fava (a traditional dish made from yellow split peas) and enjoy a memorable and authentic taste of Santorini.

Fine Dining

Selene Restaurant

Selene is one of the most prestigious restaurants in Santorini. Established in 1986, the restaurant promotes local cuisine with a modern twist. It offers a farm-to-table experience, using ingredients sourced from the island's farms.

Selene's menu is a tribute to traditional Greek flavors reimagined through modern techniques. Additionally, the wine list is impressive, showcasing the best of Santorini's volcanic terroir.

La Maison

Situated in the village of Imerovigli, La Maison is a high-end restaurant that combines breathtaking views of the caldera with exquisite dining. The restaurant's setting is intimate, with an elegant terrace overlooking the Aegean Sea.

La Maison is known for its creative fusion of Mediterranean and French cuisine, prepared with the freshest local ingredients. The dishes are carefully crafted, offering both visual and gastronomic delight.

Canaves Oia – Petra Restaurant

Canaves Oia is one of Santorini's most luxurious hotels, and its Petra Restaurant is a culinary gem. This fine dining establishment offers a unique, modern take on traditional Greek cuisine, focusing on local ingredients and innovative presentations.

The restaurant's atmosphere is serene and sophisticated, emphasizing personalized service. The wine pairing is curated by expert sommeliers, highlighting the best of Greek and international wines.

Where to Stay

Santorini has some of the best luxury hotels in Greece. If you're looking for comfort and style, the island's 5-star hotels offer top-notch amenities, amazing views, and excellent service.

Katikies Santorini in Oia is one of the most famous. Known for its white architecture and infinity pools overlooking the caldera, Katikies is a peaceful retreat.

The hotel has beautiful suites, a spa, and gourmet dining with a variety of Mediterranean and Greek cuisine by some of the best chefs in Greece. Al Fresco dining is available from the terraces to ensure you don't miss a second of the glorious sunset.

If you want to spoil yourself, select the Master Suite. It has a bathroom with a jetted bathtub, an open-air dining area, and a private plug pool.

Grace Hotel Santorini in Imerovigli is another top choice. This boutique hotel is ranked as one of the 10 best hotels in Greece by Travel + Leisure. It offers stunning views of the caldera from its cliff-top position above the Aegean Sea.

Getting to Santorini

The best way to get to Santorini from Athens is by taking a direct flight. Flights from Athens International Airport to Santorini (Thira) Airport are frequent, with several airlines offering multiple flights daily. The flight is under an hour, making it the fastest and most convenient option.

This quick trip allows you to maximize your time on the island, arriving refreshed and ready to explore. Upon landing, you can easily arrange transportation to your hotel or other destinations on the island.

Alternatively, you can travel to Santorini by ferry from Athens' Piraeus port, where several luxury ferry options are available. These ferries, such as those operated by companies like Blue Star Ferries and SeaJets, offer a premium travel experience that combines comfort and style.

Onboard, you'll find spacious seating in VIP areas, allowing you to relax in plush, reclining chairs with extra legroom. Some offer fine dining and private cabins, providing a quiet and comfortable space to rest during the journey.