Santorini
Capture your own postcard moment on Greece’s most iconic island.
With its dazzling whitewashed buildings, trademark blue-domed churches, and dramatic clifftop towns, Santorini is arguably Greece’s most recognisable location. This little island in the Aegean Sea offers so much beauty in such a small space, and visitors flock here in their millions to watch the sun set over its red, rocky landscape.
But this haven of tranquillity was not always so; the island had explosive beginnings. Its unique shape it resembles a reverse ‘C’ enveloping some smaller islands was caused by an extremely violent volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. What’s left is the remains of a volcano caldera that flooded with seawater. The people of Santorini soon built a new civilisation, perilously clinging to the sides of the old rim. As you might expect from anywhere in Greece, Santorini (also known as Thira) is packed with archaeological treasures, including an entire village known as Akrotiri, which overlooks much of the island. There, you’ll see the foundations of a grand temple, and colourful frescoes that have miraculously withstood the test of time.
When you want to return to the present, you can meander about Santorini’s more modern towns and villages, which seem to climb up the old volcano like a stairway into Greece’s perfect blue skies. Browse the charming little shops of Oia, or take a leisurely cable car ride from the port to the main town of Fira. While you’re in town, don’t forget to feast your eyes on elaborate Byzantine churches, which feature gilded chandeliers and painstakingly painted murals of Christian imagery.
In Fira, the largest settlement on the island, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire caldera, or check out some of the local history museums. If you’d prefer a more typical Santorini view, head ten kilometres (6.2 miles) north to visit Oia, the village where that distinctive Santorini photo is set. You know the one: the colourful village overlooking a rocky seaside, which the Greek tourist board adores.
If you’re looking for more active pursuits, Santorini has much to offer. Hike up to Skaros Rock, a precarious outcrop that was once home to a medieval fort. Or trek all the way down to Red Beach an almost alien setting where the red, sandy cliffs of Santorini meet the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea.
At the end of your day exploring all of the island’s delights, you’ll be in need of some well-earned rest and relaxation. Get yourself to a seaside taverna Amoudi Bay is a particularly scenic spot and sip on a glass of Santorini’s famous red wine, which is said by some to be the best in all of Greece. While you’re at it, order some tomatokeftedes a Santorini speciality of deep-fried local tomatoes (famed for their deliciously sweet taste) and classic Greek feta cheese.
Santorini offers some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, so if you’re staying in one of those, you’re in for a treat. Relax in infinity pools that stretch seamlessly out over the water, giving you a stunning view of the volcanic landscape. If you’re in more modest accommodation, you can still enjoy the wonderfully Greek ‘philoxenia’ (love to strangers/guests) that your hosts will undoubtedly offer after all, you are in Greece’s most sought-after destination.