For so many Santorini is the No 1 tourist destination in Greece, for locals and visitors from all over the world. It is a beautiful volcanic island in southern Greece and belongs to the Cyclades complex. The Caldera, the breath-taking sunsets, the whitewashed homes, and the narrow picturesque streets make Santorini a dream-like destination for an all-year-round destination. Oia, Fira, Ammoudi Bay, the famous Red & black Beaches, ancient Fira are some of the most remarkable places, where you can enjoy some unforgettable experiences on the Island. Following is a list of our favorite things to do when visiting our island.
The famous Santorini Sunset
Let’s start from the most famous sunset of the Mediterranean sea, the Santorini sunset. The sun sets behind the Caldera creating a extraordinary scenery for all visitors. The dark volcanic rock of the island changes to an almost red shade and in conjunction with the whitewashed homes, the colourful plants overlooking the streets and the caldera, and the sea becoming one with the red sky the scenery is just majestic. If you wonder what’s the best place to enjoy the sunset, we will suggest Oia, however if you can make sure it is out of high season. Oia is such a picturesque small town with the blue dome churches, the narrow colourful streets, flowers hanging on the balconies, bars and restaurants. Just Marvellous!!
Visit Imerovigli
Apart from Oia, Imerovigli is also a pretty stunning place for photos and romantic walks along the caldera. Less busy too. There are multiple churches and small streets overlooking the volcano, where you can stand for that perfect Instagram shot. 😊 You will also find a large variety of bars and restaurants with incredible cuisine and views of the volcano.
Catamaran Cruise in Santorini
During your holidays in Santorini, you definitely have to cruise around the island using Catamaran. The cruise can last up to 5 hours and you usually travel in small groups. In the package, they included: The pick-up and drop-off from the hotel, food, and beverages as well as snorkeling equipment. The sailing usually starts early in the morning, avoiding the hot summer hours or in the evening enjoying the incredible sunsets.
Hike from Fira to Oia
Santorini is not only a romantic place for couples but also an incredible place for sports lovers. Especially for hikers and runners during the autumn or springtime. If this is you, leave your car behind and follow the hiking trail from Fira to Oia. The distance is approx. nine kilometers, about three hours walk alongside the spectacular views of the caldera. An amazing experience you will never forget.
Cliff jumping at Ammoudi
For those who prefer sea sports, and swimming there are several options to choose from. Cliff jumping at Amoudi bay might be one of the most fun experiences, one that gets the adrenaline pumping, for sure! You need to go to Ammoudi bay and after reaching the end of the bay after all the taverns, follow the rocky path. In five approx. minutes you will reach the cliff that’s sitting out in the sea to the right. So you will need to swim out to the rock, climb and start cliff jumping into the crystal clear waters of the Caldera. Waoo!
Rent a Quad/ATV in Santorini
It’s impossible to imagine Santorini without an ATV / Quad! Exploring the island with an ATV / Quad Santorini will most definitely be one of the highlights of your holiday. At ‘Blue Island Rental’, we offer various options for your ATV rental, and we also provide a guided tour of the island with ATVs for larger groups. Blue Island Rental is a family business and we have more than 10 years of experience in the industry, we are also one of the best rated companies in Google Reviews. For more information feel free to contact Blue Island Rental – Santorini.
Catholic Church of Santorini
After the frantic moments, you should definitely visit the Greek Catholic Church of Fira. The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is a parish of the Roman Catholic Church in Fira and serves as the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Santorini which was created in 1204. Upon arrival, you will see the large orange-blue dome overlooking the town and the incredible view of Caldera. The interior is beautifully decorated with large religious paintings, beautifully framed arcs, and outstanding dome architecture. On the exterior, there is also a wonderfully ornate clock tower standing proudly overlooking the town.
Eat like a local
Santorini is also remanded for its versatile gastronomy as the choice of world cuisines is vast and easily accessible. However “When in Greece do as the Greeks do” so if you are looking to broaden your culinary experiences then the local Greek cuisine is the way to go. Excellent meat dishes, fresh fish, and octopus from the Aegean in conjunction with some Ouzo, Tsipouro, will take your vacation to a whole different level. And for the veggies, as you know Greece is renowned for its large variety of vegetarian food, with delicious local Fava and the island “Tomatokeftedes” being some of the most famous in Greece. Let’s do not forget the Santorini cherry tomatoes, some of the best in Greece. There are numerous taverns both in the mainland and coastline, where you can savor all Greek dishes and listen to traditional music. Some of our favourite are: The Vine – in Fira, Metaxi mas – in Exo Gonia, and Alismari in Kamari, where you can eat some of the best Greek traditional food on the island.
Santorini Wine Tours
Before you leave the island you should try one of the famous Greek wines, the wines of Santorini. Daily tours are organized and being accompanied by a guide, you will visit the most famous wineries of the island, where you will learn everything about the Santorini wine production. The tour lasts about 4:30 hours and in the package, they usually include drop-off and pick-up, up to twelve different wine tastings accompanied by local snacks, food, and mezedes.
Santorini Products
Before you leave the island and to make those holiday memories last even longer, so you should try and get some local products for you, your family or friends. Santorini is famous for its Wine, mostly due to the volcanic soil. There is a large variety of Red and White wines, from the white wines we have the “Assyrtiko” variety and from the red wines the “Mavrotragano” variety, both considered some of the most famous wines in Greece and all over the world. Another famous volcanic wine from Santorini is the ‘Vinsanto‘, a derivative from blending the Assyrtiko and Athiri varieties. Except for the local wines, there is a variety of unique Santorini products you should try and are eligible for travel. Such as the Fava beans, some local Greek honey, the Santorini Capers and Pistachios.