SantoriniTravel Guide

Santorini's famous sunset from the ruined castle in Oia draws hundreds every evening — arrive 2 hours early to claim a spot, or watch from one of the taverna terraces with a glass of Assyrtiko wine.

A 9km trail along the volcanic caldera edge connecting Fira to Oia — dramatic views the entire way. Allow 3–4 hours; begin at dawn to avoid the heat and have the path almost to yourself.

The Minoan Bronze Age city buried by the volcanic eruption of 1613 BC — preserved under volcanic ash like a Greek Pompeii. Extraordinary and almost always uncrowded.

Assyrtiko grown in the island's volcanic soil is one of Greece's finest whites. Santo Wines has the best caldera views; Domaine Sigalas has the best wine. A tasting costs €15–25.

Sail around the caldera, swim in the hot springs (naturally heated geothermal water), snorkel at White Beach, and watch the sunset from the water — the best perspective of Santorini's impossible beauty.

Santorini's capital clings to the caldera rim — narrow lanes of shops and cafes, with a cable car (or 588 steps past donkeys) connecting the town to the old port below.

A striking volcanic beach beneath red and black cliffs near Akrotiri — reached by a short, slightly scrambly path. Smaller and rougher than the island's sandy beaches, but unforgettable for the colour alone.

A tiny fishing harbour at the base of the cliffs below Oia, reached by a steep path or 300 steps — fresh-caught fish tavernas right at the water's edge, with swimming off the rocks before dinner.

A hilltop village of whitewashed houses and a Venetian castle ruin, largely untouched by tourism — narrow medieval lanes, a 360° island view, and some of Santorini's best tavernas without the crowds.

At the island's highest point (567m), this working monastery offers a sweeping view over the whole caldera, Fira, and neighbouring islands — quiet and rarely visited compared to Oia and Fira.