While most tourists are captivated by the stunning views and often miss out on exploring the true essence of Santorini.

Santorini is often referred to as the "Greek Pompeii" and is believed to be the "Lost Atlantis" due to the discovery of the ancient Minoan city of Akrotiri in 1967.
Akrotiri, located in the southern part of the island, is one of the most significant Aegean settlements from the early Bronze Age (first half of the 2nd millennium B.C.). The settlement was abandoned due to a volcanic eruption, but it was also preserved by the same event. Volcanic material covered the area, safeguarding its glorious past: the vast territory, multi-storeyed houses adorned with exquisite frescoes, an impressive sewer system, stone streets and squares, and numerous luxurious vases and furniture items.

In ancient times, the only town on the island, Thera, was established by Dorian colonists at Méssa Vounó, a natural fortress in the inland. Perched on a hill at 369 meters high, the ancient town spreads out in terraces. It features antiquities such as the Sanctuary of Artemis, the Agora, the Royal Portico, the Temple of Apollo Karneios, the Basilistai House, the Gymnasium of the Epheboi, a theatre, and the Terrace of Festivals.

The picturesque village of Oia, mostly embedded in the pumice cliffs, is the first settlement in Greece to be designated a cultural heritage site. Hundreds of visitors are captivated by the world-famous sunset from this location. Profitis Elias in Imerovígli offers an alternative spot for a breathtaking sunset. Emporeio, a traditional village with a medieval touch, is also worth visiting, thanks to its fortress architecture, narrow streets, and six-meter-tall windmills.

Take a guided tour to explore the traditional architecture of Santorini, featuring low-lying cubic houses made of local stone and whitewashed or lime-washed with various volcanic ashes used as colors. A unique characteristic is the common use of hypóskapha: extensions of houses dug sideways or downwards into the surrounding pumice.

Santorini's beaches are a marvel of nature, featuring deep blue waters, white, red, and black sand, vertical cliffs, red and black volcanic pebbles, and spectacular rock formations. While opinions may vary, everyone agrees that Santorini's beaches are the most unique and unusual they've ever seen. The volcanic nature of the island has profoundly influenced its coastal treasures, creating a unique lunar landscape and exceptional clarity in the Aegean Sea. Let us guide you along the crystalline beaches that form an uninterrupted line along the island's windswept shores, showcasing their mysterious, awe-inspiring, and compelling beauty.

Begin your journey in the northern part of the island at the sun-drenched beaches around Oia, known for their wild, untamed beauty. Many of these beaches are hidden from the main road. Ammoudi, located at Oia's harbor, is a picturesque beach lined with charming cafes and restaurants. Armeni, a small beach with azure waters and a magnificent view of Thirassia island, can be reached by boat from Ammoudi or on foot. A small footpath connects Oia with Armeni, but if you find the 286 steps challenging, riding a donkey is an alternative solution. A diving center is also available for adventure-seeking beachgoers. For those seeking seclusion and serenity, Baxedes (or Paradisos), a quiet beach with black sand and chiselled rocks, or the black-grey sandy beach of Kolumbo (popular with nudists), are ideal choices. According to volcanologists, the largest active underwater crater of Santorini is located in Kolumbo. Katharos beach will impress you with its wild landscape, while Pori is a quiet family beach.

The eastern side of the island offers wild beauty that will prove irresistible to sunseekers looking for peace and seclusion, as these beaches are neither organized nor frequently visited. Impressive sculptured rocks, black sand, volcanic pebbles, small ports with fishing boats casting colorful reflections on azure waters, and a few beech trees are the trademarks of Xiropigado, Vourvoulos, and Exo Gialos.

On the southeastern side of Santorini, sun-loving tourists will encounter magnificent black sandy or pebbly beaches. Monolithos is highly recommended for families, as the water is very shallow compared to other Santorini beaches, and there are facilities like playgrounds to keep children entertained. Young people can enjoy beach bars or beach volleyball playgrounds. Soak up the atmosphere along the lively waterfront at one of the charming beach bars or bask in the turquoise blue waters of the cosmopolitan beach of Kamari, one of the island's most crowded and organized beaches. Among Santorini's most sought-after beaches, especially among young people, are Perissa, Perivolos, and Agios Georgios, which stretch out one after another to create the longest black sandy beach on the island. These beaches feature bustling beach bars, diving and water sports centers (including jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing, and canoe-kayaking), and beautiful people-watching. Could you ask for more?

Heading south, you'll find the semi-organized beach of Vlychada, with its grey sand, huge rock formations sculpted by the wind over the years, and unique lunar landscape. Recently, a large modern marina, home to the Sailing and Yacht Club of Santorini, has been constructed here. Nearby lies the beach of Almyra, where sun worshippers can enjoy a beautiful, quiet beach with impressive sea-sculpted rocks in the background. The Akrotiri area is famous for its ancient ruins, but tan-seeking sunbathers will also discover some marvelous beaches there. Caldera is a small and very quiet beach with black sand and deep crystal-clear waters, offering an unrivaled view of the volcano, while Gialos is a secluded beach accessible only by jeep.

Close to the excavation site of Akrotiri, you'll find what is probably the most famous beach on the island, the Red Beach. Its impressive red rock formations create a breathtaking, unique volcanic landscape. Access involves a walk from the harbor of Akrotiri (around 10 minutes) or by boat from Kamari, Akrotiri, and Perissa, but the all-red landscape is certainly worth the trek. The nearby White Beach is another stunning seascape that you simply must not miss. Black sand, big grey and white pebbles, and gigantic white rocks form a bizarre setting like you've never seen before.

Note: Unless you are a professional climber, getting to White Beach is only possible by boat (from Akrotiri).

ACTIVITIES

Santorini offers a wide range of activities for visitors, catering to both the highly active and those who prefer a more relaxed pace. The towns of Fira and Oia, with their cobblestoned streets and alleyways, are home to chic boutiques, shops, and numerous dining options for those who wish to spend their days and nights enjoying the breathtaking views of the Caldera.

Climbing:  Santorini is a climber's paradise. The steep cliffs rising 300 meters above the caldera provide challenging climbing paths that have attracted even the most famous and experienced climbers from around the world.

Walking: Don't leave Santorini without walking the incredible path from Fira to Oia at least once – it takes about 2 hours! This is the best way to experience the absolute grandeur and beauty of this unique island. Be sure to set off early in the morning to avoid the heat, or in the evening to reach Oia in time for the sunset.

Photography Tour: Discover Santorini with the guidance of an experienced photographer/guide, following a variety of itineraries. You'll improve your photography skills, capture the beauty of the Aegean, and return with an authentic photo album full of unforgettable experiences.

Cooking Classes: Don't miss to arrange a cooking lesson at one of the best restaurants, focusing on local cuisine made with Santorini products. The volcanic soil yields unique produce such as the legendary 'Santorini cherry tomato,' deep red with tough skins outside and juicy inside; the famous Santorini fava beans with a light, fresh taste; barley; wheat; and white-skin eggplants.

Wine Tasting: For wine enthusiasts, let us guide you through a unique aroma journey by taking you to some of the best-organized vineyard destinations in Greece, coupled with excellent food and wine tasting experiences. The white wines from the island are extremely dry with a strong citrus scent and metallic aromas enriched by the ashy volcanic soil. At Estate Argyros, you can also taste the Vinsanto 20-year barrel-aged wine, one of the oldest and most aged Vinsanto wines on the island, awarded several prizes worldwide.

SPORTS

Water Sports: Jet-ski enthusiasts, get ready for organized jet ski safaris around the island. Begin your adventure from Perivolos or Perissa and conquer the waves until you reach White and Red Beach, the volcano, and the islands of the caldera. For an adrenaline rush, try paragliding with a special parasailing boat, or take private water ski or wakeboard lessons.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling:
Scuba diving aficionados will truly appreciate the unique underwater world of Santorini. The seabed is distinct, featuring volcanic stones and the bottomless depths of the caldera.

Sailing: Sail around the magnificent caldera in brand new catamarans, perfect for a romantic sea escape or a family educational experience, surrounded by the breathtaking Santorinean landscape. You can hire a catamaran for a half-day cruise or a short tour to admire the spectacular sunset. Book a private or group boat cruise and enjoy the unique opportunity to see the awe-inspiring volcano up close, dive into the hot springs, swim in the deep green waters, and enjoy a barbecue or picnic at the island's most secluded spots.

While in Santorini, you can also take part in an exciting sea excursion departing from the old port of Firá or from Athinios port, depending on the trip you choose. Visit the two small islands at the center of Caldera, Palea and Nea Kameni, known as the "volcano" to locals, or combine your excursion with a visit to Thirassia and Oia. And of course, could you think of anything more romantic than watching the famous Santorini sunset onboard?

For action lovers, here are some tips:

- Best spots for scuba diving: Cape of Tripiti at Thirassia, Palia Kameni (the shipwreck), Mesa Pigadia, Ammoudi, Armenis (wall dive), Aspronissi
- Diving centers are located at: Ammoudi, Kamari, Perissa, and Oia
- Windsurfing/jet ski equipment is available at the following beaches: Kamari, Perissa, Avis

DINING

Santorini boasts a wide array of dining options, allowing you to indulge in luxury or enjoy elegant simplicity, with a variety of cuisines in different settings. During the summer months, reservations are highly recommended as dinner in Greece is typically served late. Here are a few of our top recommendations, but feel free to ask us for more tips.

Selene Restaurant (+30 22860 22249): Selene is arguably the best restaurant in the Cyclades, offering elegant settings, excellent service, and an extensive Greek wine list. With a deep appreciation for island cuisine and local ingredients, Selene is located in Pyrgos, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved villages in Santorini, built around a medieval castle. In the summer, owner George Hatziyianakis and his chefs offer daylong cooking classes. Reservations at Selene are highly recommended.

1800 Restaurant (+30 22860 71800): One of the most famous restaurants in the Cyclades, 1800 is located in Oia and is housed in a magnificently restored old captain's house. The original colors and furnishings, including antique sofas, wooden travel chests, and a hand-painted Venetian bed, create a very romantic dinner ambiance. The eclectic menu offers a blend of Greek fusion and molecular cuisine, appealing especially to adventurous palates. The superb roof terrace offers breathtaking views of Oia's most spectacular church cupolas and the famous sunsets.

Restaurant Ambrosia (+30 22860 71413): The balcony of this restaurant in Oia overlooks the caldera's edge and offers contemporary adventurous Mediterranean cuisine. With only a dozen tables on the two terraces, it provides one of the most intimate candlelit dining experiences on the island. Its nearby sister restaurant, Ambrosia & Nectar, is less formal and easier to get a table.

NIGHTLIFE

Santorini's nightlife has a wild history dating back to the disco era. Start your evening with a wide array of bars offering music from deep progressive house to acid jazz. Many of these bars boast a magical atmosphere as they sit right on the caldera.

Beach Clubs
Santorini features several exceptional organized beaches. You can visit the exclusive Red Beach, a rare volcanic beach, or choose to swim with your family at Monolithos or the cosmopolitan Perivolos – a beach with completely black sand and crystal-clear waters where you can spend your day relaxing and sipping cocktails under the sun and the sound of music.

Here are some of our favorite beach bars and restaurants:
- Anemos – Perivolos (+30 22860 82711)
- Sea Side Lounge – Perivolos (+30 22860 82801)
- Tranquilo – Perissa (+30 22860 85230)
- Theros Wave Bar – Vlyhada (+30 22860 25469)

BY AIR
Santorini is connected to Athens International Airport, the flight lasts 50 minutes but also to Macedonia International Airport (Thessaloniki), it is also connected to other airports in Greece. British Airways also connects directly Santorini with London in the summer months. Easyjet and Ryanair are also operating direct flights. You can also reach the island with a helicopter from Athens.

BY SEA
Santorini is connected to Piraeus and other Aegean ports. Ferries travel from Piraeus to Santorini in about 7.5 hrs while high-speed boats take around 4.5hrs. Santorini is also connected with the ports of Lavrio and Rafina.