We believe that if Santorini had a middle name, it would be "Innovation." From cooking classes to skimming the waves in a catamaran, everything you wanted to do is right here.
Some hikers say the trail from Fira to Oia is the best they've experienced. Perhaps it is the only way to comprehend the majesty of Santorini. We call it The Way of Churches, for every so often, you come upon a tiny chapel tucked into the mountainside.
The hike includes four villages: Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia. The route is a mixture of dirt, cobbled and paved paths that run atop the Caldera cliffs - there is an unavoidable patch of tarmac road in the Imerovigli area. The distance is approximately 10.5 km (6.5 miles.) Start early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
It can take two to five or six hours, depending if you stop for lunch, coffee or detour to a church. Along the way are a couple of canteens; they may or may not be open. Take water and a hat; wear sturdy walking shoes (The route is unsuitable for young children, infants and strollers, and not a biking path.)
The Greek Wedding at White Door Theatro is the best show in town. Guests get to join in with a re-enactment of a Santorini Wedding from the 1940s. There is singing and dancing, breaking of plates, Greek mezedes and unlimited wine. The performance lasts just under 2 hours. Reservations are required.
21.30 (daily) June, July, Aug
21.00 (day by day) May, Sept, Oct
Tel +30 22860 21770
Cine Kamari is one of the best open-air cinemas in the world. A family business since 1987, the venue is housed in a fairytale garden. The bar serves wine, cocktails, soft drinks and snacks. Evenings can be chilly in Santorini; free blankets are available (or take a jacket.) Films are in English with Greek subtitles.
Doors open 20.30 / Movie starts 21.30
May until Oct (daily)
Tel +30 22860 33452
Atlantis Books is not just a bookshop. Founded in 2004 by a group of friends, a cat, a dog, and a van named Danny - it's a way of life. Shelves teem with bestsellers, fiction and non-fiction, rare first editions, and books on Greek culture and history. Throughout the year, Atlantis hosts literary and food festivals, film nights, book readings and music events.
10.00 am till midnight / Tel +30 22860 72346
In the early 2000s, Metaxi Mas (Between Us) was known only to the locals; a cosy haunt where lunch turned into dinner and patrons left when the shop shut. Today, it is one of the most popular tavernas in Santorini. Created by two brothers with Cretan roots, Demetris and Kostas, the cuisine has an aroma of Crete and Santorini. Early reservations are a must.
14.30 - 23.30 / Tel +30 22860 31323
Each September, Santorini holds the Ifestia Festival celebrating the volcano (Ifestio means volcano in Greek.) Festivities include concerts, exhibitions, and theatrical and dance performances. The culmination is a spectacular fireworks show, a reenactment of the volcanic explosion.
Greek Orthodox Easter is a revered time of the year. Celebrated islandwide, the most iconic tradition occurs in Pyrgos village. On Holy Friday, during the Procession of Epitaph, the hillside illuminates with a magical display of candles glowing from every rooftop and winding path.
Santorini has an array of local recipes and original products, including its own beer. The creamy Fava, the bite-size cherry tomato, and a host of wines are amongst the delicacies found at traditional eating places. When in Santorini, Eat Santorini.
Cooking lessons at Petra Kouzina are a Greek gastronomic experience where you cook, taste and enjoy warm hospitality in a traditional home. The meal is shared with other guests; at the end you receive a menu with the recipes. Tel +30 698 107 6655
The hiking path from Fira to Oia, a favourite with nature lovers, is known for breathtaking views and little churches along the way. The full distance is 10.5 km and it takes anywhere fron two to to six hours depending if you stop for coffee or detours. Start early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
Cruising the Caldera waters by yacht or catamaran is one of the best things to do in Santorini. Choices include private and semi-private sailings with lunch on board, and half-day or full-day outings with sunset return. There are boat tours to the Volcano, Hot Springs and the island of Thirassia.
Our colleague, Georgia Dimas, offers private tours around Santorini. A licensed tourist guide, a day out with Georgia is fun, informative, and comfortable. Itineraries can be tailor-made to your specific interest. We can arrange an excursion before your arrival or when we meet.
