Curator’s statement
Visiting Santorini is the closest you will get to stepping into a dream. Simply being in Santorini is the ultimate experience, but there are a few secrets to the volcanic island you should know before you go.
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Where to stay in Santorini
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Things to do in Santorini
Pool afternoon at Canaves Oia Suites
One of the most amazing things to do in Oia, Santorini, is to get lost! Make your way through the maze of local shops and souvlaki stands until you find yourself in your own piece of Greek paradise at the end of the world just in time for an epic sunset.
Santorini isn't known for beaches, but the plunge pools with caldera views are endless. Spend the afternoon avoiding cruise crowds in a perfectly positioned hotel.
A must-do is a catamaran cruise around the caldera to take in her full beauty while you learn the history of the island before stopping for snorkeling and a Greek lunch with some of Santorini's best wines.
If needing that legendary photo of yourself with the Santorini blue domes, book a private photographer to bypass the people spending a day in line so you can get pictures that makes everyone home jealous, but not at the expense of your time in this magical town.
Places to eat & drink in Santorini
Santorini wines at Canaves Oia Suites
There are plentiful restaurants and bars in Santorini accommodating all budgets. My recommendations are:
Metaxi Mas: This is a local favorite (and mine) for a reason. Owned by two brothers from Crete, you will feel like family from the moment the raki (traditional grape spirit) arrives to the table to the final bite of steak with vinsanto sauce.
Roka: Hidden down a small alleyway in the middle of Oia, Roka is an intimate restaurant with authentic Greek cuisine and an expansive wine list. Don't let this establishment's cozy environment fool you — it boasts bold flavors and big sunset views.
Pitogyros: Needing that famed Greek gyro? Look no further than Pitogyros, just off the main streets of Oia. Grab a table or a traditional pork gyro to go in this casual street spot.
Petra: This romantic restaurant is nestled within Canaves Oia Suites, offering sunrise with a side of breakfast (and a freddo). Looking for an extra special experience? Book the private panorama table for sunset.
Anhydrous: Off the beaten path, Anhydrous pays tribute to Santorini's volcanic environment with its high quality wines and inspired gastronomy using local flavors. Definitely save room for a tomato fritter.
Need to know
If planning that winter getaway, Santorini is not the place, as many hotels and businesses are closed between November and March.
Flying into Santorini is highly recommended as the ferry can take up to 12 hours from Athens.
Santorini is not known for its beaches — I would book a caldera-facing hotel with a pool.
Cruise ships are still plentiful and the island can be crowded in the afternoons (especially Oia). This is a great time to have lunch or relax poolside.
Book a photographer to get the iconic Santorini shots without the hassle of the crowds and to get access to the secret spots.
Cats are the unofficial mascot of Greece. Expect to see local felines in all places getting preferential treatment from locals and visitors alike.
A catamaran tour with Sunset Oia is highly recommended for a wonderful way to see the caldera.
Another way to see the island of Santorini is through a wine tour with Santorini Wine Adventures, exploring the local viticulture. But sure to buy wines you like there since they can be hard to find once home.
Travel Advisor
Olivia Morgan
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Santorini page.