CRETE
Crete is elemental—sun-split rocks, salt-laced air, and a pulse that predates myth. It’s where Minoan palaces crumble beside mountain monasteries, and where every meal tastes like it was made by someone’s yiayia. Come for the coastline, stay for the culture: ancient olive groves, lacework villages, barefoot beaches, and tavernas that haven’t changed in generations. This is Greece at its most rugged and real. Less polished, more powerful.
Where We Eat
Crete is a world of its own—culinarily and otherwise. The food here isn’t just regional, it’s ancestral: deeply tied to the island’s terrain, seasons, and soul. From seaside tavernas to mountain grills, this is honest, grounded cooking at its best.
Our Dinner Go-Tos
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Run by a farmer-chef using wood-fired clay pots and ingredients from his own land, Ntounias is a pilgrimage for those craving true Cretan soul food. You’ll sit under grapevines and eat slow-cooked goat, hand-rolled pasta, and heaping plates of foraged greens with olive oil so rich it borders on drinkable.
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In the old harbor of Chania, this tiny family-run spot serves organic vegetarian Cretan food with real love and intention. There’s no menu—just what’s fresh and simmering that day. Expect things like stuffed zucchini, lentils with wild herbs, and barley rusks drenched in tomato and feta.
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High up in the White Mountains, Alekos is a hidden grillhouse worth the detour. There’s no view, no pretension—just fire-grilled meats, fresh salads, and the kind of unspoken hospitality that makes you linger. The kokoretsi and fried potatoes are local legend.
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This beachfront spot near the capital somehow toes the line between casual and curated. Come for lunch in your swimsuit and stay for grilled calamari, sea urchin pasta, and glasses of tsikoudia with your feet in the sand.
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Yes, it’s known. But it’s also legit. Peskesi leans into Cretan heritage cooking with organic ingredients and a bit of polish. Think slow-roasted pork with honey and thyme, spiced snails, and raki pairings. Request a garden table for the full experience.
Street Food
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A bustling local favourite in Heraklion where pork, chicken, or bacon skewers are grilled and wrapped on the spot into pita or baguette, loaded with tzatziki, fries, and fresh salad. Open late and very affordable, it delivers serious Cretan fast food with real authenticity.
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Often overshadowed by its neighbor Iordanis, this family-run bougatsa shop at Apokoronou 37 serves the original cheese-based Chania-style bougatsa—with ultra-thin phyllo, mizithra cheese, and just a sprinkle of sugar and cinnamon. Local reviewers call it the best and most authentic in town.
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A traditional hole-in-the-wall taverna near the old town market where savory bougatsa and simple grilled bites are served fast, hot, and with genuine Greek hospitality. Loyal locals head here when they want something hearty without pretense.
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A rustic taverna right on the water’s edge known for souvlaki, stuffed burgers, and grilled meats—served fast, cheap, and with no compromise on flavor. Though it looks casual, the quality is top-tier, making it a mainstay for late-night diners and locals skipping the tourist traps.
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Tucked down a back street near Lions Square, this little souvlaki stand has achieved cult status among Heraklion residents. Fresh pita, perfectly charred meat, sharp mustard, and juicy tomatoes make this one of the best—and cheapest—street eats on the island. No frills, all flavor.
Daskalogianni 51, Chania 731 32, Greece
Go All Out
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Once a quiet fisherman’s haunt, now an elevated homage to Cretan flavors, Ferryman earned global attention without losing its soul. White tablecloths, a sea-lapped terrace, and standout dishes like lamb with yogurt foam or cuttlefish ink risotto. Come early for a cocktail and the light.
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Set in a 16th-century Venetian mansion in the heart of Rethymno’s old town, Avli offers a rare mix of elegance and heritage. Dine in the lush courtyard on dishes that blend local ingredients with subtle creative flair—like goat cheese mousse with thyme honey or carob-glazed pork cheeks.
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Part of the atmospheric Blue Palace resort but open to all, Arismari blends Cretan tradition with a design-forward, barefoot-luxury vibe. Seafood dominates the menu, but don’t skip the charred vegetables or the honeyed semolina cake for dessert. Book a sea-view table and lean in.
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Crete’s most talked-about culinary destination—and for good reason. Set inside a restored 19th-century mansion, Peskesi champions authentic Cretan gastronomy. Expect ancient recipes reimagined: snail stew, lamb with trahana, and the island’s best apaki, all plated with care.
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Polished, modern, and unexpected for Heraklion, Epsilon is where locals go when they want dinner to feel like an occasion. The space blends contemporary elegance with Mediterranean warmth, and the menu—octopus with fava, black Angus with Staka cheese—leans upscale without losing touch with its roots. The rooftop terrace adds a final flourish.
Best Desserts
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A creative patisserie-meets-coffee bar where buttery galaktoboureko and baklava are reimagined with seasonal flavors and artful presentation. Locals pop in for a slice and a freddo espresso; tourists come back for the second helping.
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Handmade Italian-style gelato, but with Greek island flair. Flavors rotate with what’s fresh—think lemon verbena, thyme honey, pistachio from Aegina, or wild cherry spoon sweet. Small batch, obsessively crafted, and far from average.
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It made our breakfast list for coffee with a view, but locals know it’s just as famous for its pastry case, overflowing with decadent chocolate cakes, creamy profiteroles, and layered delights. The views at sunset + a sweet bite? No better pairing.
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A Cretan institution since 1924, this is the place to try Chania’s signature savory bougatsa—hand-stretched dough filled with mizithra cheese and served with a dusting of sugar and cinnamon. No frills, no menu, just one perfect thing done right. Come early: locals line up before 9 a.m. to eat it standing up at the counter, like it’s still 1950.
Where We Wake Up
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A Cretan classic perched just outside Chania, Koukouvaya is beloved for its sweeping views of the bay and decadent, cake-heavy brunches. Pair a Freddo espresso with their signature “Zoumero” (a molten chocolate dessert disguised as breakfast), or opt for their savory pies and housemade marmalades.
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Set in an old stone mill under a canopy of trees, this spot feels like a secret garden. Mornings are quiet and atmospheric, with fresh-squeezed juices, graviera omelets, and sweet bougatsa served under the vines. Bonus: they open early and take their coffee seriously.
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A Heraklion staple since 1922, this low-key institution is beloved for its loukoumades—Greek-style fried dough puffs served hot with honey and cinnamon. The setting is simple, the prices are modest, and the flavors are nostalgic in the best way.
Where Dinners Linger
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Set high in the White Mountains, Ntounias is not a restaurant—it’s a pilgrimage. Chef-owner Stelios Trilyrakis cooks everything over wood fire, using no electricity or gas, and grows nearly every ingredient himself. Come hungry, come curious, and plan to stay late.
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Beloved by locals, this tucked-away taverna near the old harbor has mastered the art of slow-roasted meats and hand-kneaded breads. Rustic in the best way, it’s the kind of place where they remember your name and pour you another glass without asking.
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Live Cretan music spills into the alleyway, mezze plates never stop arriving, and the raki flows generously. This is what a proper Cretan evening feels like: casual, convivial, and slightly magical.
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Overlooking Kissamos Bay, this flower-draped taverna is where you go after a day at Balos or Falasarna—and maybe where you stay long after the sun goes down. The menu leans hyper-local, with wild greens, goat cheese, and dishes you won’t find outside the region.
Where We Sleep
Elessa Hotel
A peaceful, design-centric boutique just a short stroll from the black-sand beach of Kamari.
Why We Like It
Soft-toned interiors, a crisp pool deck, and garden views all feel approachable yet elevated. Staff offer local insight over breakfast, and you’re close enough to the beach yet far enough from the crowds for genuine rest.
Image courtesy of Elessa Hotel
Details To Know
From ~€230/night
Set in Kamari, within walking distance of beach bars and seaside cafés
On-site pool and sun lounge create a restful retreat
Warm, welcoming service with clean, quiet rooms
Free shuttle service to Fira on request
Ideal for mid-range travelers seeking style and affordability
Gardens planted with olive trees and aromatic herbs add to the sense of place
Evening light filters through olive groves onto warmed stone pathways—soft, unexpected luxury without a clifftop price.
Cavo Bianco
A modern, peaceful oasis steps from Perissa’s volcanic sands.
Why We Like It
Cavo Bianco is a smart choice for those craving a design-forward stay without the price tag of the caldera—think sleek white-on-white rooms, tiered pool decks, and a surprisingly elevated spa. The service is warm and unpretentious, and its location near the black sand beach gives it a different, more relaxed flavor than the postcard views of Oia.
Image courtesy of Cavo Bianco
Details To Know
From ~€260/night
Kamari Beach is a three-minute walk down the hill
A quieter base—best for travelers who don’t mind renting a car to explore the island
On-site restaurant, Petra, serves Greek comfort food with a modern twist
Staff can arrange winery visits and sailing tours directly
Two main pools plus a smaller plunge pool in the interior courtyard
Compact but stylish spa with a small gym and treatment rooms
Family-friendly, but with enough style for couples
Just a short walk from the scenic Ancient Thera trailhead—a rewarding early-morning hike for those who want a less-touristed dose of Santorini history.
Vora Villas
A sleek cliffside hideaway that feels more like a private design residence than a hotel.
With just three sculptural villas built directly into the volcanic rock of Imerovigli, Vora is one of the most intimate and architecturally striking places to stay on the island. The interiors are minimal and calming, with bone-colored concrete, black volcanic stone, and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the caldera like a living artwork. It’s ultra-private and wildly romantic—designed for travelers who crave both quiet and aesthetic impact.
Image courtesy of Vora Villas
From ~€630/night
Located in Imerovigli, away from the crowds
Three private villas, each with a heated plunge pool
Interiors blend Cycladic minimalism and brutalist design
Outdoor dining setups with panoramic caldera views
No restaurant, but gourmet breakfast delivered to your villa
24/7 concierge and on-call service feel hyper-personalized
Not suitable for kids or large groups—this is a romantic hideaway
Close to Skaros Rock trail and sunset walks
Each villa has its own rooftop terrace and outdoor soaking tub carved into the rock—no two are the same.
Details To Know
Why We Like It
Istoria Hotel
A design-forward, toes-in-the-sand retreat on the quieter side of the island.
Why We Like It
Set on black-sand Perivolos Beach, Istoria blends laid-back beach vibes with high-design elegance. The hotel sits on the former estate of a legendary horse rider, and its name (“story” in Greek) carries through in details like curved archways, stone floors, equestrian imagery, and muted earth tones. The atmosphere is serene, intimate, and far from the caldera crowds—perfect for couples who want beachfront Santorini with substance and soul.
Image courtesy of Istoria Hotel
From ~€260/night
Located on Perivolos Beach on the island’s southeast coast
12 suites with plunge pools or hot tubs
Part of Design Hotels and run by Santorini’s leading hotelier group
Mr. E, the on-site restaurant, is helmed by chef Yiannis Kioroglou
Spa treatments, horseback riding, and wine tastings on request
Adults-only, maintaining a calm and curated environment
Warm, minimal palette with natural textures and handcrafted ceramics
Ideal for beach lounging and design lovers
The name is a nod to storytelling—and each room is inspired by a chapter of the estate’s former life.
Details To Know
Canaves Ena
A cliffside gem carved into Oia’s volcanic rock, offering one of the most intimate caldera experiences on the island.
With just 18 individually styled suites carved from 17th-century canaves, Canaves Ena blends authentic Cycladic architecture with modern minimalism, intimate service, and a sunset-facing infinity pool that feels exclusive—and utterly unforgettable. Its peaceful atmosphere and boutique scale make it one of the most quietly elegant luxury stays in Santorini.
Image courtesy of Canaves Oia
From ~€450/night
Adults-only property (ages 14+)
Built into the cliffs of Oia on an ancient vineyard site, each suite low-slung and uniquely shaped
Adami restaurant serves seasonal, rustic Greek plates by Margarita Nikolaidi
The central pool is small but surrounded by caldera views—perfect for golden-hour lounging
Spa treatments are offered off-site at sister properties nearby
Free shuttle access to Canaves Oia Suites for spa or facilities use
No elevators—there are steps and uneven paths between suites
This property also operates a private sailing yacht—guests can charter it for caldera cruises at sunset, complete with drinks and small bites.
Details To Know
Why We Like It
Andronis
Boutique Hotel
Carved into Oia’s caldera, this romantic hideaway balances contemporary elegance with Greek architecture.
Why We Like It
Sculpted into the Oia cliffs, this adults-only hideaway offers cascading whitewashed suites with private plunge pools and sweeping caldera views—every moment feels cinematic. Service is standout, the mood romantic without being saccharine, and its intimate layout makes it ideal for couples or solo travelers craving luxury with quietude. Add to that its wellness-forward ethos and onsite dining, and it’s a polished gem in the Andronis portfolio.
Image courtesy of Andronis Boutique Hotel
From ~€620/night
There are 14 suites, each with a private jacuzzi or plunge pool
Cliffside location in central Oia with panoramic views
Fine dining on-site at Lauda Restaurant
Serenity Spa offers treatments using local ingredients
Heated outdoor infinity pool with bar service
Sustainability-forward practices throughout the property
Discreet, adults-only atmosphere
Lauda’s wine cellar features over 1,700 labels, with tastings curated by an in-house sommelier.
Details To Know
Santo Pure
A low-rise, village-style retreat just outside the bustle of Oia with sunset-facing suites and a slow, spacious rhythm.
Tucked just outside the Oia crowds, Santo Pure is a design-forward wellness retreat that manages to feel both indulgent and grounded. Cycladic minimalism meets spa serenity across a sprawling complex of pool suites, olive trees, and sun-drenched terraces. It’s one of the rare properties on Santorini that feels like a resort without sacrificing elegance or authenticity.
Image courtesy of Santo Pure
From ~€580/night
57 suites and villas with private jacuzzis or pools
A short walk from the center of Oia
Five outdoor swimming pools across the property
Wellness Center includes spa, hammam, and fitness pavilion
On-site Alios Ilios restaurant serves elevated Greek cuisine
All suites feature separate living areas and sunset views
Pet-friendly with dedicated amenities for dogs
Complimentary yoga and meditation classes
Tailored excursions and yacht tours available
Request a Sunset Suite—each one has direct western exposure for unspoiled golden hour from your terrace.
Details To Know
Why We Like It
Santo Mine
Santo Pure’s boutique sibling: intimate, sleek, and perched perfectly on the cliffside.
Why We Like It
Carved into the cliffs at the far western edge of Oia, this adults-only newcomer is bold, architectural, and immaculately private—each suite is a standalone sanctuary with a pool or hot tub and unobstructed sunset views. It’s the more elevated, design-driven sibling to Santo Pure, with a quieter footprint and a distinctly grown-up vibe. If you want dramatic views without the fanfare, this is the one.
Image courtesy of Santo Mine
From ~€660/night
37 suites, each with a private pool or jacuzzi
Adults-only for a more tranquil stay
Cliffside location directly above Ammoudi Bay
The Wine Cellar offers private tastings and curated pairings
Outdoor gym and wellness suite with daily treatments
Sophisticated Mediterranean dining at Taratsa
Locally sourced natural toiletries and eco-conscious design
24-hour concierge available via WhatsApp
Suite 303 includes a secluded terrace with a direct view of the caldera and fishing boats in the bay.
Details To Know
The Duchess
A lavish cliffside haven that’s managed to feel both discreet and cinematic.
A striking all-villa escape in Imerovigli, The Duchess blends classic Santorini style with contemporary comfort—each unit is sprawling, serene, and comes with private outdoor space and plunge pool. It feels like a home, but with hotel polish, and offers serious breathing room compared to the denser layouts in Oia. The experience is luxurious but relaxed, with sunset views you’ll remember forever.
Image courtesy of The Duchess
From ~€680/night
There are just 9 suites and villas
Every room includes a private heated pool and full kitchen
Located in Imerovigli, known for its peaceful vibe and prime sunset perch
High-tech automation system for lighting, music, and curtains
Daily breakfast delivered to your suite
In-room spa treatments available
Personal chef service can be arranged for private dining
Spectacular caldera and volcano views
Interior design combines Cycladic minimalism with soft glam
They offer a curated “Santorini Soundtrack” playlist that plays upon arrival and evolves with your stay.
Details To Know
Why We Like It
Canaves
Sunday
A tiny, luxe enclave of just eight caldera-facing suites, offering privacy in a village-center location.
Why We Like It
Each suite is individually curated with alabaster stone walls, boho-chic interiors, and wide terraces; design-forward, impeccably serviced, and quietly glamorous—perfect for those seeking Oia’s aura in a micro-exclusive setting. It feels like a secret hideout above the most photographed spot in Santorini.
Image courtesy of Canaves Sunday
From ~€530/night
Only 8 suites, making Sunday intensely private
Set on a cliff just steps from Oia’s main pedestrian street
Spa services, poolside bar, and on-site dining
Breakfast included à la carte or in-suite delivery
Complimentary Wi-Fi, valet parking, and personalized concierge
Adult-focused environment; best suited for couples seeking calm
Seasonal outdoor infinity pool with sun loungers and unobstructed sunset spectaculars
Quiet, restful energy with refined minimal styling and local touches
Breakfast amenities include a welcome drink, bottle of wine, and fresh fruit on arrival during select packages—adding a thoughtful, celebratory touch.
Details To Know
Grace
An ultra-luxe cliffside resort known for its elegant design, panoramic caldera views, and reclaimed-winery grounds.
Grace Hotel embodies refined minimalism and cinematic beauty in equal measure—hanging gardens, cascading pools, and a thoughtful spa built around the ancestral monastery walls. It remains rare for balancing high-end luxury with discreet warmth, and every room feels singular yet effortless in luxury.
Image courtesy of Grace Hotel Santorini
From ~€1,050/night
Set above Agios Nikolaos Chapel with sweeping Aegean views
Infinity pool flanked by shaded cabanas and sunset benches
Varoulko restaurant offers oceanfront fine dining
Attached winery and vineyard hosts daily tastings
Spa offers holistic treatments and Yoga classes
Library, lounge, and private terraces with immersive sightlines
Breakfast is cooked-to-order and served on open-air terraces
Ideal for design-lovers seeking immersive luxury and calm
The hotel offers a guided “Lost Vineyards Walk” on its ancient vineyard paths—complete with local wine pairings and storytelling.
Details To Know
Why We Like It
Perivolas
An enduring icon of Santorini style, embodying minimalist luxury and authentic calm.
Why We Like It
Effortless elegance meets artful restraint: suites carved into centuries-old caves, soft linens, uninterrupted views, and a sprawling infinity pool that feels like a modern Cycladic mirage. Guests return for decades, drawn by the calm understatement and heritage rooted in place.
Image courtesy of Perivolas Hotel
From ~€700/night
Built into cliffs above Oia with direct caldera access
22 suites, each with private terraces or pools
Spa suite offers open-air hot tub carved into stone
Guest activities include dinner in a wine cave
Wellness walking paths link the property to Oia and nearby trails
Ideal for understated elegance lovers and slow travel couples
Closed winter; open April through early November
Evening reading by the pool is served with house-selected Greek wines—a perfect unadvertised ritual.
Details To Know
The Vasilicos
A refined Imerovigli estate offering privacy, boutique scale, and sweeping sunset views without the Oia crowds.
Tranquil with immaculate design, outdoor terraces, and an old-school spirit of warm welcome that feels quietly luxurious. Formerly the home of a Greek art collector, it still carries that personal soul—antique ceramics, handwritten notes, and garden paths make it feel more like a guesthouse than a hotel. There’s a humility to its luxury that’s deeply refreshing, and a sincerity in the service that keeps travelers coming back.
Image courtesy of The Vasilicos
From ~€705/night
Located at Imerovigli’s southern edge with unobstructed caldera views
Only seven suites, each with expansive private terrace or plunge pool
Spa and massage services available in an adjacent heritage building
Walking access to Skaros and Agios Nikolaos Monastery
Ideal for small groups or families seeking calm with space
Breakfast outdoors under jasmine-scented arches
Built using local volcanic stone and traditional techniques
Dinner reservations come with sunset glassware from Limnos island—hand-blown and signature to The Vasilicos.
Details To Know
Why We Like It
Nobu Hotel
Nobu Matsuhisa’s glamorous cliff-side debut: sleek domes, infinity pools, and high-design meets high-drama.
Why We Like It
Sleek, vine-white domes echo the island’s vernacular architecture; signature Nobu cuisine meets Cycladic chic in a hotel that feels jet-set yet not ostentatious. It feels both sceney and serene: you can sip yuzu martinis at the edge of the caldera, then retreat to your quiet, cave-cooled suite for a completely private escape. It’s the rare spot where luxury design, a world-class restaurant, and a front-row seat to the sunset collide without losing a sense of place.
Image courtesy of Nobu Hotel
From ~€900/night
Built on a narrow spit above the caldera with panoramic pool terraces
25 rooms and suites—many with jetted plunge pools and domed interiors
Ship-prow-shaped breakfast terrace faces the golden sunset
On-site Michelin-level dining, sushi bar, and bespoke cocktails
Gym and in-room spa treatments are available
Seasonal closure: open May through October
Ideal for modern travelers who want resort energy with culinary depth
Relaxed but stylish crowd, often destination-driven by the brand
The hotel sometimes hosts sunset sushi masterclasses on their terrace—luxury meets craft in one golden hour session.
Details To Know
What We Do
The draw of Santorini is visceral—sunset-soaked cliffs, ancient ruins carved into volcanic rock, and a rare stillness that feels almost cinematic. But there’s more to do here than watch the sky change colors. From private catamaran charters and natural hot springs to boutique wine estates and archaeological marvels, this island rewards those who look beyond the postcard. Here’s the good stuff.
Culture & Shopping
Culture & Shopping
Art Space Winery & Gallery
An underground art gallery housed in a 19th-century winery cave, Art Space marries local viticulture with contemporary Greek art. The setting is atmospheric and raw, with original wine presses still intact and curated works lining the stone walls.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Exo Gonia
Price: Free to enter; wine tasting from €10
Vibe: Moody, off-radar, soulful
Need to Know: The owner, Antonis Argyros, often leads tastings himself—his family has been making wine here for generations.
Carrot Concept Store
Nestled within Decostore in the heart of Pyrgos, Carrot Concept Store is a minimalist-luxe boutique offering contemporary Greek design in clothing, accessories, and home goods—each piece feels deeply considered and distinctly local. Expect well-known Greek labels and exclusive collaborations that feel editorial and authentic.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Pyrgos center
Price: Designer clothing from €120; accessories and décor €50+
Vibe: Architectural, refined, luxe
Need to Know: The store is run by Greek creatives with a background in design marketing and connects strongly to the island’s rising creative scene
Vassaltis Vineyards
Vassaltis is the island’s most modern boutique winery. The tasting room overlooks vineyards and the sea, and the wine flights—served with curated local pairings—feature single-vineyard Assyrtiko, barrel-aged blends, and experimental bottlings that push the boundaries of Greek winemaking.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Vourvoulos, 10 minutes from Fira
Price: Tastings from €25/person
Vibe: Minimalist, polished, quietly luxurious
Need to Know: Book the elevated “gastronomy tasting” in advance for seasonal pairings by a resident chef on the shaded stone terrace
Ancient Thera
Less famous than the caldera-facing sites but wildly cinematic, Ancient Thera sits atop Mesa Vouno with panoramic views over Kamari and Perissa. This mountaintop ruin spans Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine remains—temples, markets, houses—and feels untouched compared to the crowds of Akrotiri. The drive up is winding and thrilling.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Mesa Vouno, between Kamari and Perissa
Price: €6 entry
Vibe: Remote, open-air, windswept
Need to Know: Wear proper shoes and go early to avoid both heat and tour groups. The hike down to Perissa is an option if you’re up for it.
Mati Art Gallery
Founded by renowned visual artist Yorgos Kypris, Mati is more than a souvenir shop—it’s a design-forward gallery of sculptural jewelry and glasswork that reflect Santorini’s sea and mythological undertones. A favorite among in-the-know collectors.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Fira
Price: Free to browse; jewelry from €80+
Vibe: Sleek, symbolic, elevated
Need to Know: Every piece—especially the signature ‘eye’ motifs—is handcrafted, often using materials like silver, bronze, and fused glass.
NOŪS Concept Store
Attached to the design-forward NOŪS Hotel, this high-concept boutique blends art, scent, and fashion—think Cycladic pottery-inspired objects, elevated swimwear, and rare Greek skincare.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Mesaria
Price: €50–€400+
Vibe: Contemporary, architectural, art-house cool
Need to Know: Many pieces are exclusive collabs with Greek designers and not available online.
Adventure & Nature
Adventure & Nature
Caldera Hike: Fira to Oia
The island’s most iconic trail winds along the caldera’s edge, from Fira to Oia, offering staggering Aegean views, whitewashed villages, and dramatic volcanic cliffs. Start early to catch the morning light, and stop in Imerovigli for coffee or a quiet moment.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Trail starts in Fira and ends in Oia
Price: Free
Vibe: Iconic, cinematic, meditative
Need to Know: The full hike takes 2–3 hours depending on pace and heat. Wear sun protection, and avoid midday hours in summer.
Horseback Riding at Vlychada Beach
Swap cliffs for coastline with a guided horseback ride along the volcanic sand of Vlychada Beach and through Santorini’s lesser-trodden trails. An unexpected and romantic way to experience the island’s raw side.
Location: Vlychada, south Santorini
Price: From €80 per person
Vibe: Peaceful, windswept, off-grid
Need to Know: Morning and sunset rides are the most atmospheric. Book ahead, especially in high season.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Volcano & Hot Springs Boat Excursion
Sail across the caldera on a catamaran or traditional wooden kaiki to reach the active volcanic islets of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. Walk the lunar terrain of the volcano, then soak in sulfur-rich hot springs. Most tours end with a front-row seat for sunset off the coast of Oia.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Departs from Athinios or Ammoudi Bay
Price: From €95 per person (semi-private)
Vibe: Elemental, otherworldly, iconic
Need to Know: Shoes for the volcanic terrain are a must. Water clarity near the springs is beautiful, but it can stain light swimsuits.
Kayaking & Snorkeling
Paddle below Santorini’s red and white cliffs, past sea caves and hidden coves, with stops for cliffside picnics and reef snorkeling. It’s a close-to-the-water view of the island’s wild side—quiet, athletic, and beautifully intimate.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Departures from Akrotiri or Kambia Beach
Price: From €120 per person (private tour)
Vibe: Active, coastal, immersive
Need to Know: Tours are weather-dependent and moderately physical. Some include photography and drone footage.
E-Bike Ride through the Vineyards
Glide through Santorini’s lesser-known inland villages and vineyards on an E-bike, stopping for tastings, views, and photos. End at a hilltop overlooking the caldera for one of the island’s most underrated sunset spots—without the crowds of Oia.
Location: Departs from Emporio or Megalochori
Price: From €85 per person
Vibe: Peaceful, off-the-radar, romantic
Need to Know: No major fitness required thanks to electric assist. Most tours include wine tasting and hotel pickup.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Jet Ski to the Volcano
This isn’t your typical jet ski spin. With a guide, you’ll slice across the Aegean from Perivolos toward the caldera, weaving past Red Beach, White Beach, and into the volcanic heart of Santorini. Stop to swim in sea caves and catch views of the cliffs from angles few visitors ever see.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Departs from Perivolos Beach
Price: From €280 for 1–2 people (includes fuel + guide)
Vibe: Thrilling, volcanic, cinematic
Need to Know: You must be over 18 to drive. No license is required, but previous jet ski experience is helpful. Tours last around 2.5 hours.
Fitness & Wellness
Fitness & Wellness
Ciel Spa
A design-forward wellness space rooted in Greek nature, with a strong focus on personalized treatments and healing rituals. Their volcanic stone hammam, sound therapy journeys, and signature body rituals using Greek herbs and oils are worth blocking off half a day.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Mesaria
Price: Treatments from €140
Vibe: Minimal, modern, elemental
Need to Know: Their herbal compress massage is one of the best on the island, and the spa is open to non-hotel guests with advance booking.
Andronis Concept Spa
This isn’t just a treatment menu—it’s a full wellness philosophy. Think cryotherapy, Himalayan salt rooms, detox rituals, and gravity-defying yoga with panoramic views.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Imerovigli
Price: Spa treatments from €120, wellness packages from €280
Vibe: Holistic luxury
Need to Know: Open to non-guests, but spa access and availability can be limited in peak season. Arrive early to unwind in their cave-style relaxation room.
Yoga with View
A boutique private yoga studio perched on the caldera, offering sunrise and sunset yoga sessions for individuals or small groups. Mats, water, and towels are included—and they’ll even come to your villa if requested.
DETAILS TO KNOW
Location: Imerovigli
Price: From €15 per session, €65 for privates
Vibe: Peaceful, cinematic, restorative
Need to Know: Book at least 24 hours in advance. Classes are tailored to your level and can include breathwork, meditation, or sound baths.
Sample Itinerary
If You Have 48 Hours
PART ONE: Sunrise To Skyline
Start your day in Imerovigli, the cliffside village with fewer crowds and just as many views. Grab breakfast at Tholoto, a low-key gem with knockout Greek coffee and a quiet terrace overlooking the caldera.
Afterward, take a morning walk down the Skaros Rock trail, an ancient promontory with panoramic views and surprisingly cinematic ruins. It’s quiet, dramatic, and full of small, sacred-feeling moments. For lunch, head to Aktaion—a taverna that’s been in the same family for over 90 years. Order the fava with caramelized onions and the grilled octopus.
PART TWO: The Night Starts Here
Spend your afternoon poolside at your hotel (The Vasilicos or Santo Pure if you’re going big), or wander into a boutique like The Naxos Apothecary for locally made, herb-forward skincare.
Book a golden-hour dinner at Athenian House—yes, it’s popular, but it earns the hype with a perfect perch and an upscale, thoughtful menu. Try to get one of the outer terrace tables, and don’t skip the mastiha-infused cocktails. After dinner, walk toward Oia and stop at Galini Café for a quiet digestif and front-row seat to the stars. This isn’t a party night—this is slow, candlelit Santorini at its best.
PART THREE: Below The Surface
Wake up early and make your way to Vlychada Port for a private catamaran cruise that takes you around the island’s lesser-seen volcanic coastline. You’ll swim through hot springs, snorkel in the Aegean, and eat grilled seafood on board.
Back on land, stop at Yalos for a barefoot lunch in the sand with just the right amount of edge—think octopus carpaccio, ice-cold rosé, and good music. After lunch, head to Art Space Winery & Gallery for a moody tasting of Santorini’s volcanic wines in an old underground cave. The owner is a character, and the wine is some of the best on the island.
PART FOUR: The Viewfinder
For your final night, head toward Pyrgos, the island’s highest village, where things feel a little quieter, older, and more cinematic. Book dinner at Penelope’s—it’s casual, family-run, and wildly charming, with views that rival anywhere in Oia.
After dinner, take your time walking back down the hill, where lanterns light the cobblestone streets and locals linger outside. If you’re still awake, stop at Volkan on the Rocks for one last drink—and a view you’ll remember long after you’ve left.
