Mesmerizing Mediterranean: Santorini, Greece

During our stay, we indulged in a variety of activities that showcased the island's natural beauty and vibrant culture.

• Half-day catamaran cruise: On a catamaran cruise we sailed and snorkeled around the island in the crystal-clear waters that allowed us to connect with the serene environment.

• Wine tour: At the private Santorini wine tasting experience with Venetsanos Winery, one of the oldest family wineries in the area, we had amazing views of the volcano and the caldera. There we experienced first hand the unique flavors and aromas of volcanic varieties of red and white grapes including Mavrotragano, Mandilaria, Assyrtiko, Athiri and Aidani.

• Museums: Take a walk or guided tour through the archaeological site of Akrotiri to fully appreciate the history of the once most economically and culturally advanced societies in the Aegean. The small Museum of Prehistoric Thira in Fira is a great place to admire the artifacts and wall paintings of the ancient world.

• Art lovers: Add an artistic touch to your vacation by visiting Art Space, an art gallery in an old cavern that also sells its own label of wine. For more color, head over to Finikia to see the salmon, blue and pink houses which were formerly canaves (wineries). Walk the cobbled streets, watch the Aegean Sea from the courtyard of Agia Matrona church and taste local delicacies at the village's taverns.

• Beaches: Make time to walk on this unique terrain at the Red and White beaches, in Vlychada, Perivolos, Perissa and Kamari, where you will notice thick, grainy and black sand. At many of these organized beaches, you will find hammocks, sunbeds, cocktails and more — alternatively, for a more tranquil vibe, choose beaches on the eastern side of the island.

Day trips

• For Endless vistas: Climb up the Prophet Elias mountain. This is the ultimate panoramic view spot.

• If you love a real adventure, get on the small boats that depart from Fira or Athinios port and visit the wild landscape of the volcanic Nea Kameni islet and walk around its crater.

• Alternatively, enjoy three hours of straight beauty by hiking the trail from Oia to Fira for caldera views the entire way.

Here are some insider tips we received for dining in Santorini. The options are endless.

Breakfast

• Erotokritos: Traditional bakery a bit outside from Fira, in the Karterados area. Open all year round.

• Galini: For breakfast and brunch with amazing views. Vegan and vegeterian options. Our favorite dish was the Santorini omelet.

Dinner

• Ammoudi Fish Tavern: A must for sunset dinners. Tavern-style dining right on the sea, with fresh seafood. Our favorite plate was the lobster pasta.

• Selene: A fine dining establishment with a modern approach to the Greek cuisine. This is a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Cocktails

• Fino: Try Fino for delicious freshly made dishes and highly recommended cocktails.

• Kaliya: Reimagine food and drinks with fantastic views and nice cocktails.