Santorini is one of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea. It was devastated by a volcanic eruption in the 16th century BC, forever shaping its rugged landscape.
The whitewashed, cubiform houses of its two principal towns, Fira and Oia, cling to cliffs above an underwater caldera (crater).
They overlook the sea, small islands to the west, and beaches made up of black, red, and white lava pebbles.
If you are visiting Santorini, here are the best things to have a memorable holiday according to Bucketlistjourney.
Eat a Santorini Salad
No doubt while in Greece you will eat plenty of traditional Greek food including salads topped with large hunks of feta, but while in Santorini indulge in a delicious Santorini salad. This salad is a version of a Greek salad that uses the ingredients that Santorini is known for: capers, sun-dried tomatoes and cucumbers. You can find a delicious one at Salt & Pepper in Fira.
Visit Pyrgos Village
Pyrgos, the largest preserved village on Santorini, is a blend of cheerful vibes, medieval charm, and eye-catching scenery.
It is perched atop a quaint hill dotted with greenery, labyrinths, Cycladic houses, fortified walls, and taverns.
Walk the narrow passages, stop by the local stores, meow at the stray cats strolling the alleys, and be a part of merry chatter at bars and cafes. Make sure to visit Pyrgos Castle that sprawls at the top of the hill.
Take a Cable Car Ride
There are three ways to get from the town of Fira down to the Old Port (or the other way around) in Santorini: take an overworked donkey, walk the almost 600 steps or take the cable car. I opted for the least smelly and strenuous of them all, the cable car, which comes every twenty minutes
See a Movie at an Open Air Cinema
With the incredible Santorini weather, going to an outdoor movie is a perfect thing to do on a warm evening. Kamari Village located on this popular Greek island boasts one of the best open-air cinemas in the world with director’s chairs, tasty cocktails, and, of course, popcorn. Get there early if you want a good seat! You can read about my experience here:
Do a Tasting at Santo Wines Winery
Not only is Santo Wines Winery one of the recommended spots to catch a stunning Santorini sunset, but you can also get a Greek wine education by partaking in a wine tasting flight. We had an eighteen wine flight—that’s right, eighteen different wines served with cheese and a spectacular view. You will taste everything from a rich Crescendo to an aromatic Rose to a dry Assyrtiko, and so much more.
See a Santorini Sunset from Oia
Sunsets in Santorini are known for being some of the most stunningly beautiful in the world, and catching one in Oia is an activity that lures people from all over the globe.
There are a few prime spots where you can witness the wondrous phenomenon, but Oia’s Byzantine Castle ruins is by far the most popular. Probably because it not only offers insanely gorgeous sunset views but also panoramas of the whole city. However, it gets insanely crowded so make sure to arrive early for the perfect spot!