Destinations
Greece
Santorini

Holidays to Santorini, Greece

Overview

The island of Santorini on the southern tip of the Cyclades island group is largely regarded as one of the most beautiful spots in Greece. With a volcanic past, this is Greece like no other part – surrounded by a black and red coastline, which invites exploration.

What marks Santorini apart is its geology, with a huge volcanic eruption having torn the island apart. Though that happened well over 550 years ago, it shaped and continues to shape this stunning location. With the middle of the island falling into itself, what has developed is a wonderful steeped-edged crater. Offering stunning views from most vantage points, sitting atop Santorini’s clifftops and watching the sun go down is a joy.

However, this is far more than a geologists dream, with the whitewashed villages and blue-domed churches dotted across the island typically Greek. With a canvas of vineyards (which you can visit) stretching as far as the eye can see and the black and red beaches harking back to the eruption, the towns of Kamari and Perissa are wonderful places to be based.

With its stunning geology, heading to Santorini on holiday is great any time of the year. For the sunseeker though, the best time of the year to go is between April and September. July or August is the hottest time, where temperatures tend to comfortably sit in the high 20°C to low 30°C mark.

Things To Do

Santorini’s largest town Fira provides a hub of tourist activities but doesn’t lose any of its Greek charm. With sun, sea, culture, history and excellent food, holidaymakers here can pack their days with activities and relaxation.

Here are many highlights, which any trip to Santorini should include. Notable ones, however, are a journey on the famous cable car, the ruins of Akrotiri, scuba diving the waters breaking on Perivolos Beach and seeing just how many blue-topped churches you can take a selfie in front of.

Oia is also popular – located right on the coast, this small fishing village is home to traditional tavernas and is Santorini’s premier sunset spot. If you have a head for heights, the cable car between Fira and the old port, situated 260 metres below, offers a commanding view on the edge of the volcano’s crater with a stunning Aegean backdrop.

Food And Drink

Romance again strikes when it comes to eating here, with some stunning restaurants throughout the island ideal for candlelit meals lasting to a late hour. During the day, there are many Greek tavernas to tempt you in, while beachside cafes are great for snacks too.

Traditional cuisine comprises of feta salads, pork gyros, stuffed vine leaves, fresh seafood and mezze boards. There are a fantastic array of restaurants in the main town of Fira, however, you are just as likely to get an exceptional meal in a local taverna anywhere in Santorini. The island has a perfect climate for growing grapes and therefore produces some of the finest white and dessert wines in all of Greece.

Hotels are the main source of entertainment for most people taking cheap holidays in Santorini, but there are also a good number of clubs and pubs to enjoy. For couples in particular, this naturally romantic island is a wonderful place to be. The streets of Thira and sunsets from Oia are both typically delightful ways to while away the dying hours of the day with your loved one.