Curator’s statement
Santorini is such a magical place. There is plenty to do if you enjoy being active and sightseeing. Or if you are looking for a trip full of relaxation, you can't get much better than Santorini. Regardless of the type of trip you're looking for, there are plenty of things to include in your Santorini travel guide. There is a reason why Santorini is one of the most iconic and popular islands in Greece. Pictures don't do it justice. It's filled with history, picturesque buildings, amazing food and gorgeous scenery (it doesn't get much better than a Santorini sunset, but more on that later). On top of that, Greek people are some of the nicest people we have met while traveling.
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Things to do in Santorini
Santorini sunset: If you've ever seen a Santorini sunset, you'll understand why this is a top thing to experience when visiting Santorini. During our trip to Santorini, we planned our evenings around the sunset. Whatever you do, make sure you're outside and in a great spot for the sunset! Whether you're on a catamaran cruise, at dinner, or even at your hotel, there are plenty of places to get the full sunset experience. My favorite spots were at 363 Champagne Lounge at the Grace Hotel and Vezené at Cavo Tagoo.
Ammoudi Bay: Ammoudi Bay is a charming fishing harbor tucked at the bottom of Oia. It is a little difficult to get to, but so worth it. It's known for the taverns along the water, Sunset Ammoudi being one of the most popular restaurants. We had a sunset dinner there and sat at a table along the water. Ammoudi Bay is also the starting point for hiking the cliffside path that leads to the stunning sunset vistas of Oia.
Catamaran tour: I always say that it's so much fun experiencing a place by water. Santorini is definitely no exception to that. We took a catamaran cruise and got to see different parts of Santorini by boat. The cruise took us by the various beaches (including Red Beach) and anchored in a spot where we could swim and snorkel. They served fresh Greek dishes and fish on board too.
Explore Oia: Oia gets really really crowded during the day because it’s one of the most popular tourist spots in Santorini. If you’re wanting to get great pictures and explore Oia before the crowds, I recommend getting there early. You can watch the gorgeous sunrise and then walk around/explore easily. We got to Oia around 8am and had pretty good luck with pictures. Don't miss the blue domes, Kastro Oia houses, and Oia cliffside! After pictures, we walked into all the little shops around Oia.
Fira to Oia hike: It's a little strenuous, but the views are gorgeous. The hike is six and a half miles (one way) and takes a little over three hours to complete.
Red Beach: Red Beach is one of the most (if not THE most) famous beaches in Santorini. It's known for its red-hued sand, making it perfect for great photos too.
Armeni Beach: Enjoy the crystal clear waters of Armeni Beach and grab a bite to eat at the tavern.
Places to eat & drink in Santorini
Restaurants:
- Lucky's: If you're looking for authentic gyro, you have to head to Lucky's!
- Sunset Ammoudi: Sunset Ammoudi is one of the most popular restaurants in Ammoudi Bay. We had a sunset dinner there and sat at a table along the water. Sunset Ammoudi is known for its lobster pasta, which I highly recommend!
- Athenian House: Dinner at the Athenian House is an experience. They offer two types of menus - one a la carte and one full tasting. We did the Heritage Grand Tasting and it was all delicious. Their famous baklava was some of the best I've ever had.
- Aris: Aris has gorgeous views of Fira and the sunset. It's one of those places where you can stay for hours and feel totally at peace. The seafood is fresh and the Greek dishes are delicious. They serve local wine too!
- Vezené: Vezené is located at Cavo Tagoo and is run by one of Greece’s famous chefs, Ari Vezené. All dishes are Greek inspired and made in an open fire grill. Vezené is one of the most popular restaurants in Santorini. If you're not looking to eat, you can reserve a sun bed, sip on a cocktail, and watch the sunset.
Bars/Wineries:
- 363 Champagne Lounge: 363 Sunset Lounge is located in the Grace Hotel. It's an intimate outdoor lounge area with gorgeous views of the caldera. We made a reservation around 6:30 p.m. and got to enjoy the start of the sunset.
- PK Cocktail Bar: PK Cocktail Bar is one of the best bars in Fira. It has great cocktails and an unbeatable sunset. Be sure to make reservations ahead of time! There aren't many bad seats in the house, but the best reservations are going to be for the front row tables.
- Domaine Sigalas: If you're looking for some good wine tasting, head to Domaine Sigalas - a winery and vinyard. The sunset views are gorgeous here too!
- Chilli Beach Bar: If you're looking for a beach club/bar with relaxing vibes, Chilli Beach Bar is a must.
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Angela Hope
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Santorini.