Category: TRAVEL

March 31, 2020

Lovely things you should do in Santorini

Travelling is fun and exploring Santorini is like paradise for every visitor. We collect 20 lovely things you must do on this beautiful island. This list introduces all the hidden gems that only locals know. So if you are planning to spend 2 or 3 days in Santorini this guide will help you around. But please if you are on Santorini for only a few days, you should think about hiring Santorini rental car for your transportation. But the most important of all… Relax and have fun.

1. Oia sunset

The views are magnificent and Oia is one of the first villages you should visit. This is the image or dream place you probably have in mind when you think of Santorini. It attracts guests all year long and is one of the places you can enjoy the magical sunset. A beautiful village with a few shops, cafes and hotels in Oia.

2. Beautiful Beaches

One of the most beautiful beaches that remain untouched is Vlychada. A real gem of Santorini with marvellous sand creations along the beach. Of course, you should try the local dishes of the small fish canteen or seafood taverns at the port that will give you the fell of living like a local.

3. Have fun in Ammoudi Bay

It’s true that the only things that many visitors do in Santorini are taking many photos, enjoying every sunset or sunrise, eating and wine tasting. What you would feel if I tell you that you can do all these things in Ammoudi, in a terrace hanging over the sea? Yes, it’s something you shouldn’t miss! Just climb a few steps and you can get the best view and food!

4. Extreme sports in Santorini

There are many extreme sports and other activities you can do in Santorini. One of them is parasailing. Would you like to see the panoramic view of the island and the volcano from almost a hundred meters in the air? Time to see the island from a different angle, more beautiful and exciting than you could ever dream of. Take the one you love and do parasailing in the afternoon, during sunset! What is more amazing and romantic than flying over the Aegean Sea in the sunset with all these magical colours in the sky?

5. Volcano boat trip

Another unique thing to do in Santorini is volcano boat trips and visiting the Hot Springs. You can walk to the Volcano, swim in the red mud.bIf you like the adventure try a Jet Ski Tour to Volcano and explore different yet beautiful spots in the area.

6. Have a day at Katharos beach

Is the perfect place for spending your day on the beach, without thinking of anything. Just relax and have a great time. Swim and eat excellent food in the bar just above the beach.

7. Open-Air Cinema

A night at an Open Air Cinema in Kamari is a must at a warm summer night! Find all kind of movies! From classic films to the latest is the perfect place to start your night or just relax.

8. Pyrgos village

in the centre of the island, you could find a village on a hill. That is Pyrgos village, another small village that you should visit. It looks traditional and it really is. With its locals, small shops and only a few restaurants is a small gem ready to discover it.

10. Try Sea Kayaking

This tour takes you around the Southern tip of the island. With its spectacular rock formations and beaches, you will be so delighted by the scenery that you will be blowing happiness paddling around.

11. Scuba Diving

Meet the underwater Santorini with scuba diving. The beauty of this island is something you should see under the water too. Find the experts of Santorini Diving Center and explore the underwater world of the Santorini. Even if it’s your first time and you aren’t so athletic the professional dive or instructor will help you to enjoy this activity in safety

12. Taste local brewed beer

Visit Crazy Donkey brewery on the way to Kamari. Taste some of the locally brewed beer! And don’t leave the island without a Crazy Donkey T-shirt you can find at some local souvenir shops.

13. Yoga with volcano vibes

Which would be better than your daily yoga? Waking early in the morning and practising your routine on a nice terrace with views and vibes of Fira Town, Karterados and the Aegean Sea.

14. Wander the seaside promenade

Enjoy an evening walk at the seaside in Kamari with its many shops, restaurants and cafes. Kamari is a typical seaside resort with a nice black beach that you can walk, eat and have fun in your afternoon or night.

15. Swim in Perivolos

Reasonably the greatest beach on the island is Perivolos. The sea here is calm even during the days when a seasonal wind Meltemi hits the island. Here you can find all kinds of beach bars and for every budget.

16. Stop for photos at Red beach

A list of things to do in Santorini could NOT be completed without some great photo spots. The Red Beach is a natural phenomenon at the south of the island. Be aware of falling rocks, therefore do not stay down there for too long. There are as well many guided photography tours in Santorini.

17. Learn the history of Akoriti

Take a guided visit to the Ancient Akrotiri, an archaeological site that reveals a history of 6000+ years. It is worth to rent a real guide that will show you around. You can book one at the entrance, but it’s recommended to book ahead of time and the cost is usually 60 Euros/ visit.

18. Food

Taste white eggplant, puree from fava beans, tomato fries, local Santorinian salad with small cherry tomatoes and local cucumber variety called Katsuni. Talking about food, what about Eat fish at one of the seaside taverns in Akrotiri? All the restaurants on the shore are former boathouses and offer the fresh catch of the day!

19. Learn to cook like local

What about learning how to cook like a Geek? That way, you can just use the recipes to go back to Santorini every time you wish (in a sensorial way).

In the cooking class, you will:

Learn to cook like a Greek with a professional chef
Visit premier wineries in the countryside
Taste 9 different wines with a local expert
Samples traditional Greek aperitifs such as Raki and Ouzo
Enjoy a complimentary lunch in a traditional restaurant

20. Tomato Factory Museum

Less obvious, and even more surprising! Visit Tomato Factory Museum and Santorini Arts Factory for some of the exhibitions, during the summer. Both are located at the same complex in Vlychada. During the summer season, you can attend one of the many theatre, music or dance performances there, too.

See more about car rentals in Santorini:

March 29, 2020

10 stops in Santorini the beautiful Cycladic island

In Santorini everything looks paradise, as if they had come out of a painting. We have collected 10 stops that you should definitely see in Santorini the beautiful Cycladic island. Book now a private Santorini tour!

The Oia

Oia, the first settlement to be preserved (1976), is without a doubt one of the most photographed places in Greece. Her sunset has been a source of inspiration to inexperienced artists, while her streets work like magnets inviting you to get lost in their well-kept secrets. Oia, which is about 40 minutes’ drive from Fira, will amaze you because it is truly irresistible. The main road divides it into two areas: one, facing the caldera, has impressive cave buildings, the other adorned by captain houses.

Do not be surprised by the infinite domes that appear in every corner, as there are more than 60 churches in Oia. At the edge of the settlement is the Castle, with the pieces preserved to offer a unique view, but also a fascinating journey into the past.

The quality is synonymous with the region, which is one of the most interesting experiences in Santorini. Oia’s restaurants and café bars will satisfy you, with minimal shopping suggestions (other than tourist businesses) tempting you.

Tip: Do not miss the 214 steps that separate Oia from the picturesque Ammoudi, where you will enjoy guaranteed fresh fish. Also in Oia is the Maritime Museum, which is worth your visit.

Fira

Located 12 km from Oia, the bustling Fira, the capital of Santorini, is one of the must-see stops on the island. About 260 meters above sea level, they seem to be wearing their whites and climbing the cliff, to the delight of every visitor. Fira’s unique location on the caldera offers breathtaking views of Nea and Old Kameni.

Crowds flock to the densely populated area of Fira at all times of the day, while numerous businesses operating in the straits of the island’s capital attract visitors of varied interests of all ages. Your stroll will start from Theotokopoulos’ main square with the many café bars, while a little further down a street full of luxurious jewelery stretches out in front of you, promising ‘diamond’ experiences!

Indulge yourself in the charm of the beautiful straits of Fira and let your gaze wander the calming beauty of the caldera. In Fira you can take Santorini private tours to visit the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, the Gyzi Palace and the Santozeum (Old Law Center).

Tip: To get the most out of Fira, you can climb the 588 steps of the Old Port. An alternative is the cable car, which runs daily every 20 minutes, from 07:00 to 22:20. Tradition lovers can make the ride to and from the Old Harbor Kavala in donkeys! You will enjoy magnificent views of Fira from Budi, where many interesting events take place every summer. There is municipal parking in the area of Fira.

Firostefani

You can reach Firostefani from Fira by following the caldera “eyebrow” and covering a distance of about 10 minutes on foot. Firostefani, which has always been the favorite stop of every visitor to the island, owes its name to the fact that it “crowns” Fira.

The view of the caldera is simply unbeatable, with the cliff being so steep that many times your heart will beat harder. In Firostefani you will find several noteworthy food suggestions, in restaurants and taverns that have the main characteristic of a relaxing atmosphere.

Tip: On the way to Imerovigli you will find the monastery of Agios Nikolaos, built in 1651 by the Gyzi family. It is considered the boundary between the two settlements and is really worth your visit.

Imerovigli

Imerovigli occupies the most privileged position and boasts the most breathtaking views of the caldera and Thirassia.

It is renowned for its luxurious hotels that offer their guests a ‘natural balcony’ in the caldera, a tranquil atmosphere and super relaxing scenery.

Anogi restaurant in the main square gives you the opportunity to write the perfect epilogue of your day, introducing you to a better way to Santorini gastronomy and authentic Greek hospitality.

Tip: Visit the Church of Our Lady of Malta with the imposing wood-carved iconostasis and icon of the Virgin, said to have been found in Malta.

Ammoudi

You can reach Ammoudi, a picturesque port that is a must see of Santorini, descending the 214 steps that separate it from Oia.

The 19th-century commercial port today welcomes mostly sea-fish lovers who want to enjoy fresh fish and seafood.

A great choice for dining is the traditional Dimitris Tavern. If you want something more impressive, choose the new entry restaurant Ammoudi, which brought a cosmopolitan atmosphere to the area, marrying it perfectly with quality flavors and reasonable prices.

Tip: In Ammoudi you can either drive or downhill (foot or donkeys) 214 steps from Oia.

Akrotiri

It is the most important archaeological discovery of the Eastern Mediterranean. Akrotiri is a picturesque village in the southwestern part of the island, about 10 km from Fira.

The most important attraction in Akrotiri is the prehistoric settlement, which was first inhabited around 4500 BC. and came to light after the systematic excavations that began in 1967.

Since last year, the visiting archaeological site has been upgraded to a new bioclimatic shelter, attracting thousands of visitors.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of the most important “historical relics” of Greece (and not just Santorini), walking in a city of “yesterday” that remains alive.

Tip: The archaeological site of Akrotiri remains open from April 1st until October 31st. From the port of Akrotiri you can be taken to nearby beaches (as well as to the White Beach) by boat. From here, a trail leads to the Red Beach.

Pyrgos

A jewelry village, a pole of attraction for thousands of visitors each year, seeking peace, natural beauty and quality in everything.

Pyrgos, which is about 5-10 minutes drive from Fira, is definitely the most beloved village of the island. In 1800 it was the capital of Santorini, and today it manages, through its impressive architecture, its curves and beautiful alleys, its whitewashed narrow and infinite chapels with its “painted” domes, to maintain its immaculate past.

It’s worth a visit to both the Cannabis Drosu-Chrysou, which through gorgeous representations takes you to “Santorini who left”, as well as Kasteli to the top of the hill.

For your dinner, choose the excellent Selene restaurant without a second thought.

You can also choose the Tower as a base as the arty Voreina Gallery Suites has raised the bar for accommodation in the area.

Tip: Above the Tower rises the Prophet Elias, the highest peak of the island. If you want to enjoy the most beautiful view of the island, just visit it.

New Kameni

Locals call it a “volcano”, visitors make it a priority for their explorations, and the myth is adored. The reason for Nea Kameni, the middle of the three caldera islands (Thirasia and Palia Kameni the other two) that have been eyewitnesses to the volcanic eruption.

In Nea Kameni lies the largest crater, called Daphne. Visiting here is truly an unforgettable experience. You will walk around the crater, your eyes will be captivated by the colourful variety of rocks, your smell will be dominated by the fragrance of the brave, and all your senses will be awakened by the magnificent sight.

Megalochori

10 minutes from Fira is one of the most peaceful and beautiful diamonds on the island. Megalochori is a traditional small village that will steal your heart with its unique aesthetics.

Here everything seems to have come out of the paintings, while respect for tradition seems to impose absolute peace on every corner.

The village is renowned for its close relationship with wine – here are the famous Boutaris and Gavalas wineries, the tranquillity and quality businesses.

You can visit it either in the morning or in the afternoon or even in the evening, walk to the main square, admire the stunning bell towers. One of the many churches and stroll through its alleys.

Emborio

During the Venetian occupation it was the commercial and financial centre of Santorini. Today it is one of the most interesting villages on the island, especially from an architectural point of view.

Emborio is located in the southern part of Thira, very close to Perivolos and Perissa beaches.

Here you will be impressed by the stone carved houses, the exploration of the Castle (Messana), and the intense excitement of Panagia Kali, located in the castle.

Tip: Don’t miss the windmills on Gavrilos Hill. The scenery, especially on clear nights, is extremely romantic!

How to find a tour in santorini

Also the most seasoned traveler can’t be yet help attracted by Santorini. The island’s caldera climbs out of the Aegean Sea in a collection of looming multi-coloured cliffs, creating a genuinely dramatic approach by boat. Obviously, its stunning charm makes Santorini a very popular visitor destination; get away the groups and also experience the island at your own pace, on a private Santorini excursion with a local overview.

Ancient Thira was the website of among the largest volcanic eruptions in modern-day history, which struck during the elevation of the Minoan human being. Evidence of the Minoans, together with Hellenic, Roman as well as Oriental damages, can be discovered around the island. See the renowned whitewashed communities of Oia and also Akrotiri (your overview will certainly find you the most effective regional food to example along the way) and also be sure to see the sun set over the sea from the edge of the caldera.

Your guide mores than happy to make an exclusive Santorini trip that mirrors your one-of-a-kind interests in this stunning Cycladic island.

Unbelievable sundowns, pearly white buildings adorned with bougainvillea, blue-domed churches, and also attractive windmills make Santorini an in-demand location. This Greek heaven brings in couples and pairs from around the globe anxious to witness its famous sundowns of Oia, swim in hot springs, enjoy its food, and indulge in extravagant resorts.

Whether you fly in or take the ferryboat from the other islands, it’s difficult to miss out on the striking view of the mainly immersed caldera (volcanic crater) visible from enchanting settlements atop lava-layered high cliffs. The whitewashed settlements of Firá and also Oia are the island’s most alluring locations. In in between both communities, tiny towns cling to the clifftops, providing quieter and much more loosened up settings for your trip.

Santorini has even more to offer than extraordinary panoramas and multi-colored beaches. Ths island is also house to ancient arcaeological websites and also museums that are worth checking out. Obtain an ATV or a clever automobile as well as gone about experiencing the sturdy island on undulating roads. Just be prepared to stop at every edge, as the views are nonstop.

For ideas on exactly how to invest your time, see our listing of the top vacationer destinations in Santorini.

Even the most skilled vacationer can not be however assist seduced by Santorini. Of training course, its spectacular appeal makes Santorini an exceptionally preferred visitor destination; leave the crowds and experience the island at your own rate, on an exclusive Santorini tour with a neighborhood guide.

Santorini has more to offer than amazing vistas as well as multi-colored coastlines.

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