Santorini archivos - VOLARE MAGAZINE

Santorini is more than just a postcard of blue domes and famous sunsets. It is also a volcanic, mineral and luminous island, best explored on foot: along the edge of the caldera, through white villages and past black beaches and lava cliffs, and into the more secluded areas where summer eases off a little.

Santorini is so iconic that it can sometimes be hard to imagine it any other way: white houses perched above the sea, churches with blue domes, infinity pools and sunsets in Oia. All of this exists, of course, and it is all part of the island’s allure. However, the island is much more interesting when it is seen for what it really is: a volcanic landscape in the middle of the Aegean Sea.

Every climb, every dark rock and every black or red sandy beach serves as a reminder that the island was formed by volcanic activity. The caldera is more than just a beautiful viewpoint; it bears witness to an impressive geological history. The villages, beyond their photogenic beauty, serve as balconies, refuges and waypoints in this dry, rugged terrain.

Walking around Santorini in summer requires a little planning. The heat can be intense, shade is scarce, and some routes get busy. However, if you set out early, take plenty of water and plan your itinerary carefully, you can enjoy a very different experience to the typical tourist looking only for the perfect photo.

The great route: from Fira to Oia along the caldera rim

Santorini’s most famous walking routh connects Fira with Oia via Firostefani and Imerovigli. Known as the Great Caldera Trail, it is around 10 kilometres long and features urban sections, cobbled paths, dirt tracks and stunning views of the Aegean Sea and some of the island’s most spectacular landscapes.

The best plan is to start in Fira first thing in the morning. From there, the path naturally leads on to Firostefani. As you walk towards Oia, white houses, terraces and churches look out over the edge of the cliff, with the caldera always on your left.

Next is Imerovgli, one of the route’s most beautiful spots. Perched higher up and more secluded, it offers magnificent views of the volcano and the sea. If you have the time and energy, you can head towards Skaros Rock, an old fortified promontory jutting out towards the caldera. This is not essential for completing the route, but adds a wilder dimension to the walk.

After Imerovgli, the path opens up. There are fewer houses and terraces, and a broader landscape. The ground can be uneven with gravel and areas exposed to the sun, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes with good soles. Arriving in Oia is the final reward, although this is also where the crowds return. If you want to enjoy the route in peace, it is worth arriving before the busiest sunset hours.

Practical tip: allow between 3 and 5 hours depending on your pace, stops and the heat. Carry water from the start and use Fira, Firostefani or Imerovigli to buy anything you need, because after that there are fewer options until you get close to Oia.

Walking with the volcano beneath your feet

The most beautiful thing about this route is not just the view. It’s the feeling of walking along the edge of an island that was split by an ancient eruption. The caldera forms a huge natural amphitheatre, with the sea in the centre and cliffs rising all around. Step by step, Santorini reveals its volcanic nature, with layers of rock in ochre, black and red hues, dry slopes and paths seemingly carved from ash and stone. Even the white villages stand out more against that almost lunar, mineral background.

Akrotiri and Red Beach: lava, history and sea

At the southern end of the island, Akrotiri offers another way to approach volcanic Santorini. The area is renowned for its important archaeological site, but also for its landscape of cliffs, beaches and paths that show a more rugged side of the island.

Very close by is Red Beach, one of Santorini’s most famous beaches thanks to its reddish volcanic walls. It is not only a comfortable place to spend hours, but also a remarkable geological landscape, offering a striking contrast between red rock, dark sand and the intense blue of the sea.

Access may require walking along uneven paths. In some places, there are warnings about rockfalls, so it is best to check the situation before proceeding and to respect any local signs. Sometimes, it is best to simply enjoy the view and avoid swimming or approaching unstable areas.

From Akrotiri, you can also enjoy short coastal walks and stops at scenic viewpoints and nearby beaches. This is an area of particular interest if you want to experience more of Santorini than just Fira and Oia: it is less perfect, drier and rockier, but full of character.

Volcanic beaches: Perissa, Perivolos and Vlychada

Santorini does not have Caribbean-style beaches, and this is precisely part of its charm. Its beaches bear the mark of the volcano: black sand, dark pebbles and eroded walls, creating a landscape that feels very different from that of other Greek islands.

Perissa and Perivolos form a long stretch of black sand in the south-east of the island. These organised beaches have restaurants, sunbeds, beach bars and other amenities, making them perfect for those who want to enjoy a walk, a swim and a meal without any hassle. In summer, the sand can become extremely hot, so it is advisable to wear sandals and avoid walking barefoot during the hottest part of the day. Vlychada has a different character. Its pale cliffs, shaped by wind and erosion, create a landscape that is almost sculptural. It is a very photogenic beach and a great place to unwind after a morning stroll. There’s no need to do much: just walk a short distance, swim and admire the rock walls, and let the landscape work its magic.

Practical tip: if you want to go to the beach after walking, choose areas with facilities and shade. The combination of sun, wind and volcanic terrain in Santorini can be more tiring than expected.

Inland villages for breathing easier

To escape the crowds, it is worth venturing inland. Santorini has villages that aren’t just about the view of the caldera, and they allow you to experience a different side of the island.

Pyrgos is one of the best options. Perched on higher ground, it boasts sweeping views over Santorini and preserves a layout of narrow streets, stairways and whitewashed houses that invites you to explore at a leisurely pace. Megalochori has a more intimate atmosphere, with traditional houses, courtyards and bell towers, as well as a strong connection to Santorini’s wine culture. It is the perfect place to take a mid-afternoon stroll as the sun begins to set, followed by a seat on a quiet terrace.

Further south, Emporio retains a more local and labyrinthine feel. Its old centre, with its narrow passages and defensive architecture, serves as a reminder that Santorini was once home to protected villages rather than just hotels with views. It is the perfect place for those who want to explore on foot without the constant pressure to take photos or visit famous viewpoints.

Tips for walking in summer

The main rule is simple: don’t walk at midday. In Santorini, particularly in July and August, the sun can be extremely intense, and many routes offer little to no shade. The best option is to set off at dawn or very early and save the middle hours of the day for eating, resting or swimming. Make sure you always carry enough water, sunscreen, sunglasses and a cap or hat. Footwear is important too: while some routes may appear to be gentle walks between villages, there are sections of stone, gravel and dirt where sandals are not a good idea.

If you walk the route from Fira to Oia, make sure you know how you will get back before you set off. You can return by bus, taxi or private transport, but during the high season, it is worth allowing extra time for travel and possible delays. You can also just do one section, such as Fira–Firostefani–Imerovgli, if you don’t want to spend half a day walking.

A day plan on foot

The perfect way to discover Santorini on foot is to start very early in Fira and follow the caldera route towards Firostefani and Imerovgli. If it is too hot, or if you would prefer not to walk all the way to Oia, this section offers magnificent views and it is easy to turn around and head back. Afterwards, take a long break for lunch and a rest. In the afternoon, head to a volcanic beach such as Perissa, Perivolos or Vlychada to enjoy a change of scenery. A swim will help to balance out the morning’s activities and reveal another side of the island: one that is less vertical and more mineral, and closer to the ground. At the end of the day, rather than jostling for a spot at the most popular viewpoints, it is worth considering visiting Pyrgos, Megalochori or Emporio instead. Strolling through their streets, enjoying a drink and admiring the light softening over the white houses is much more enjoyable than chasing the most famous sunset.

Those travelling to Santorini in summer should set aside at least one morning for walking. Start early, take water with you, choose a realistic route, and allow the island to reveal itself to you slowly. Santorini, experienced step by step, is so much more than a postcard: it is a volcanic story unfolding between the Aegean Sea and the sun.

From the Canary Islands and the Mediterranean coast to the most beautiful cities in Europe: here are some suggestions for a dream trip.

What better gift than a lovers’ mini-break for Valentine’s Day 2025? Of course, there’s the unmissable Venice, which always enchants couples looking for a sumptuous backdrop, but the beautiful Verona doesn’t lag too far behind in the race to seduce. A more original option is Toulouse, known as the pink city, and if you are fascinated by the islands, the scenic Santorini and Tenerife, the island of eternal spring, will be a perfect choice. If you want to dazzle your better half, Prague and Vienna are ideal destinations. And finally, if you are fed up with the winter cold, why not the gorgeous French Riviera at Nice?

Venice, the Most Serene

Even in 2026, how could we not mention Venice, the most romantic city in the world? As soon as you step onto a vaporetto you will be wrapped up in its charm as you sail down the Grand Canal, with stunning palaces lining the water’s edge. Some of them have been turned into romantic hotels with gorgeous rooms. You can find cosy small cafés and restaurants everywhere. Moreover, Valentine’s Day falls during the Venice Carnival, which will be celebrated from January 31 to February 17, 2026. If you can, treat yourself to a gondola ride to the Bridge of Sighs. Otherwise, lose yourself its streets and lanes to discover the authentic charm of the city of the doges.

Verona, where lovers meet

Made famous by William Shakespeare’s tragedy, Romeo and Juliet, Verona is as romantic as it gets. You will see Juliet’s famous balcony in a little courtyard, which can be reached from Via Cappello. Less than an hour from Venice, it’s an original alternative to enjoy Italy’s charms without the crowds. It is also home to the most important Roman remains in Northern Italy: its amphitheatre is as stunning as the Roman Colosseum, but it is still used as a stage for live shows! Finally, you should take a lovers’ selfie on the old stone bridge at sunset. Veneto is also the region where prosecco, considered the best sparkling wine in Italy, is produced. Have a bottle taken to your room on Valentine’s night.

Toulouse, the pink city

Oh, Toulouse! Its magnificent Place du Capitole and its pretty cafés huddled under the arcades. A city that smells of violets and of the Southern way of life. It is known as the pink city, because almost all its buildings are made of brick, which has a certain charm: particularly at dusk, when it catches fire in the setting sun. To seduce your beloved on Valentine’s Day, treat them to a ride on a barge from the Garonne to Canal du Midi. Toulouse is a young, dynamic city, were you can enjoy a captivating night life. Will the French capital of aeronautics take you to the seventh heaven?

Santorini, a myth on the horizon

Known all over the world for its breath-taking views, Santorini seduces its visitors with its spectacular volcano crater filled with the waters of the Aegean Sea. This island in the Cyclades is still shrouded in the myth of Atlantis, even though the legend has never been confirmed. You will enjoy unbelievable sunsets from its spotlessly white villages, perched atop the island cliffs, as the flaming sun plunges into the caldera. Discovering the island in the winter is not a crazy idea, as you will easily find a wonderful suite with a jacuzzi. You will also be able enjoy the incomparable views with more privacy.

Tenerife, love amidst volcanoes and ocean

For couples dreaming of a Valentine’s Day in the sun, Tenerife is a sure bet. The island combines almost lunar volcanic landscapes with black sand beaches, tranquil villages, and nature that invites you to slow down. A sunset stroll along the coast, a getaway to the vineyards of the north, or a night under the stars on Mount Teide transforms any plan into something special. Here, romance isn’t sought after; it simply unfolds, amidst mild temperatures year-round, hotels designed for couples’ relaxation, and that feeling of being far from it all… without leaving Europe.

Prague, a legendary city

Unbelievably well-preserved for centuries, the Czech capital is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in Europe. Make sure you arrive on time at your Valentine’s Day rendezvous under the astronomical watch tower. Then go strolling hand in hand through the medieval quarter and the famous Charles Bridge, to reach Vltava on the other side. Go to the Castle to admire the cathedral and the treasures from the royal palaces. Don’t forget to climb to the top of Petřín Tower, which is like a smaller Eiffel Tower and offers a splendid view of Prague. Finally, bring your Valentine’s Day to an end with a concert and dinner under the gilded façade of the splendid City Hall.

Vienna’s princely charm

There’s nothing like an imperial capital to charm your partner. Their eyes will light up under the gilded façades of its Baroque palaces, which saw so many crowned heads and renowned composers go by. Vienna is still passionate about music and refined living. Bring out the big guns and buy tickets to a concert or the opera – prices are affordable if you book in advance. To properly admire the Austrian capital, take a ride on the Prater Ferris Wheel, before enjoying a delicious Viennese coffee together.

Nice’s winter sun

The French Riviera is known for its Mediterranean climate, which is particularly mild in the winter. There is a reason why all European crowned heads came to stay here in the winter during the Belle Époque. You will find splendid hotels along the Promenade des Anglais, including the famous Negresco Hotel. Painters have also admired the city’s pastel colours and its incomparable laid-back lifestyle. You will have everything you need to treat your body and mind during your Valentine’s Day weekend in Nice.

There are several ways to prove your love: but taking your beloved away for a Valentine’s Day weekend or trip is one of the best. We hope that this small selection of European romantic destinations will help you to plan your next 2026 break.

Going to Santorini and not visiting Oia is like going to Paris without taking even one photo of the Eiffel Tower or going to Rome and not seeing the Colosseum. I know you’ll be thinking that it will be full of tourists, with crowds of people. And, to be truthful, you’re not entirely wrong. I’ve lived in Santorini for almost 5 years and these are my local tips for visiting Oia.

Oia, the village of sailors and captains

Let’s take a step back in time, because Oia, the village on Santorini where everyone wants to admire the sunset, has a very interesting history.
Let’s start with its name. So that you don’t make a bad impression, let me tell you straightaway that it’s not pronounced as it’s written, but simply ‘eea’. Until 1930, this village didn’t even have a name! It was simply the village of the Kastro of Agios Nikolaos or ‘Pano Meria’. Pano meria’ literally means the ‘high part’ (of the island, that is). And that’s what the inhabitants of Santorini called, and still call today, Oia, which has always been considered the most important part of the island. If you want to impress a local, ask about Pano Meria’ and you’ll see a smile light up their face!

By 1200, the Venetians had already realised the potential of this village and made it their trading base. With its two harbours, Ammoudi and Armeni, the soul of the village of Oia, since ancient times, has always been connected to the sea, to voyages and trade. Sailors, captains and various craftsmen were the locals of the past, and the architecture of the village is testimony to this.

The architecture of the village of Oia: Iposcafa and Capetanospita

Stroll through the streets and look for the clues to the history of the village. Its main street, known as ‘Marmara’, is paved in marble and is a sign of the village’s illustrious past. It divides the village into two parts: the caldera, with its houses hanging over the cliffs, and the inland part, with its neoclassical villas, the captains’ houses. Things (as well as prices!) are a bit different now, but at one time the cave houses (iposkafa) overlooking the volcano were the homes of sailors, workers and those who were unable to build a house, and so made their homes by digging into the rock. That’s why the famous cave houses of Oia are on top of one another, almost one inside the other, with private space almost non-existent today, as it hardly existed in the past. The captains, on the other hand, with more economic means, built their houses (capetanospita) inland, in a neoclassical style, with wonderful terraces from where their families could look out every day to see if the captain and head of the family was on their way home.

Is Oia worth visiting today?

My answer to this is most definitely yes! Oia is a village that tells the history of Santorini (its past) and also the story of its present and future. It’s true that at sunset you’ll find huge crowds of people who, like you, have come to watch the sun sink into the blue waters of the Aegean. If, like me, you’re an early riser, my advice is to get to Oia in time to see the sun rise. As the soft light of the early sun hits the pastel colours of the houses, you’ll be treated to a sight that will stay with you forever. You’ll walk through the narrow streets of the village in absolute silence.

But if getting up in time for dawn is not for you, be patient and find a spot close to the ruins of the Castle of Agios Nikolaos, (although if you’re with your partner and are looking for a romantic atmosphere, this is not ideal). If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, once you’ve visited the village, set off just before sunset and go and lie on Baxedes beach (less than 10 minutes’ drive away), where you’ll find a bit of solitude and the same spectacular sunset.

What not to miss in Oia

Castle of Agios Nikolaos

The castle is the place to watch the sunset from (see above!)

Ammoudi Harbour

If you’ve eaten a few souvlaki too many, then this is your chance to work off those calories! Put on your trainers and walk down the 278 winding steps from the castle to the harbour. You can then walk back up if you have any energy left, or call a taxi (but please don’t use the donkeys)!

The most instagrammable places

There are various spots throughout the village and you’ll have no problem finding them because there’ll be long queues to join before you can take your photo. This is another reason why it’s best to visit Oia in the morning!

Unmissable are the Blue Domes: when you reach the churches with their blue roofs, it will be like a dream come true. And you’ll gain a few more followers.

A local’s guide to Oia: a list of alternative things to do

Take the water taxi that leaves from Ammoudi and visit the tiny island of Thirassia, just a few hundred metres from Oia. Only 250 people approximately live there and it’s like being in Oia in the ‘60s or ‘70s.
Visit the small Maritime Museum to learn a bit more about the interesting history of the village.
Seek out the local artisans/artists. Oia has always had a place in the hearts of those who make a living from their creativity, such as the highly talented painter of sacred icons, Dimitris: spend some time in his studio full of history and love for Greek culture

If you love the sea, you could take a dip in the waters of the caldera and book a diving tour. Certainly one of the more alternative ways of exploring the beauty of Oia.

Where to eat in Oia without breaking the bank

Breakfast: at Vitrin, brunch at a café with sunset views. Almost impossible to find a seat in the afternoon, so go there for an amazing breakfast of crepes and waffles in the morning. Or there’s the To Fourni bakery for a simple koulouri or pita, if you want to start the day Greek style.
Street Food: for the best souvlaki, go to Nikos, behind the square where the local buses stop. If you need to kill some time as you wait for the bus to Fira, why not spend it eating a souvlaki pita?
Dinner: Roka, a small restaurant with a garden, hidden among the little streets with the captains’ houses, near the post office. There’s no view, but some things need to be sacrificed for a dinner that’s excellent value for money, in a wonderful atmosphere!
Ice cream: if you fancy something cool and sweet, the ice cream at Lolita’s is for you. The pistachio flavour is really delicious!
Typical sweets: a stop at Melenio is a must if you want to savour some traditional Greek desserts and admire the deep blue waters of the Aegean.
Wine: drop by my friend Andreas in the beautiful Oia courtyard Oenosart. Here you will find exclusively Santorini wines, excellent dishes to accompany your glass and art exhibitions by young artists! If you don’t have time to visit the wineries on the island (you’ll find Sigalas and Oeno P very close to Oia), this is the place to go. Even just for a coffee, it’s the ideal spot for taking a breather from the crowds or having a chat with the young locals.

Oia is certainly Santorini’s most popular village today. Even though I’ve lived on Santorini for years, I don’t have a magic wand and, especially in high season, it will be hard not to find yourself surrounded by hordes of people. But if you go a bit against the tide and follow my tips, Oia is sure to amaze you!

Getting to Anafi is a journey in itself: the last archipelago of the Cyclades lies secluded a few kilometres from Santorini, revealing its free and alternative spirit only to the determined few. This tiny island is full of history, legend, archaeology, unspoilt nature, enchanting beaches, traditions and local products.

I saw the island of Anafi every morning from my terrace in Santorini for four and a half years. Every day at dawn, Kalamiotissa monastery would rise with the sun behind Akrotiri castle. My desire to visit the island, so close yet so difficult to reach, grew over the years, together with my need to build a new life in a smaller community. The tales of Anafi’s beauty and unique qualities inspired me to visit the island in May 2021 and to move there permanently the following month! It was love at first sight, heightened by the island’s aromas, its tranquillity and the free spirit of these few square kilometres.

Anafi, an island that changes atmosphere from one month to the next, is a coveted destination, a port to reach for travellers who like to stay and discover a place at its own pace.

How to reach Anafi, a journey within the journey

Of all the arrivals in all the Cyclades islands, arriving in Anafi is perhaps one of the most captivating experiences. The island has no airport, and you can only get there by one of the few ferries leaving at difficult times of day. The ferries that go to Anafi travel at night and reach the island by dawn’s early light. The colours of the sun rising over the sea will be the first much-deserved reward for travellers determined enough to get here. The easiest way to get to Anafi is to fly to Santorini and then take a ferry (with a journey time of one and a half hours). In the summer season there are more night ferries (although not every day) connecting Santorini with Anafi and a smaller boat that makes the journey only in the daytime (only a few days a week). Another way to get to Anafi is to fly to Athens and take the night ferry from the capital.

What to do in Anafi: walks in the Chora, trekking and slow life by the sea

Anafi has an area of just 36 km², only one village and a small port, but so much to discover. Anafi is not an island where you look for things to do, it is an island where you sink in its slow pace, marked by the few passing ships and forget all the demands and excesses of city life.

Chora is the only village on the island, perched on a hill, with the classic Cyclades style of maze-like streets, little white houses and painted blue windows. As you stroll around Choras’ narrow streets, you’ll feel like you have been transported to another era, where you can breathe in the simplicity and serenity, together with the scent of the clean laundry hanging out to dry in the houses’ little courtyards. Chora comes to life in the mornings, for breakfast and the compulsory stop at the village bakery, where they bake traditional Anafiotika delicacies.

Kalamos: When you arrive on the ferry, you cannot miss the imposing hill (463 m), the second largest monolith in Europe after the Rock of Gibraltar, and little Kalamiotissa church, clinging to its summit. In the summer, many visitors climb it at sunset with a sleeping bag and sleep on the church’s terrace, waking up to watch the sunrise in a truly surreal and mystical setting. To reach the summit, you’ll need some good trainers and to be in fairly good shape (it is a climb of around one and a half hours), but the view that awaits you’ll more than repay your hard work and sweat. Go and visit the Zoodochou Pigii Convent too, where path for Kalamiotissa starts. If it is closed, ring the bell and a nun will welcome you into the beautiful courtyard, where you can buy local products in their shop.

Kalamiotissa anafi — © Nicoletta Barbata

Trekking on Kalamos: If you enjoy walking, Anafi is the island for you. Apart from trekking on Kalamos, you’ll find many paths to lead you to discover the unspoilt and at times rugged natural surroundings.

trekking kalamos anafi — © Nicoletta Barbata

Sea trips: The perimeter of the island has many beaches and coves that you can only get to by sea, I recommend a boat trip with the Koursaro (the pirate!), so you don’t miss out on any of them.

The beaches of Anafi: immaculate, no umbrellas and for lovers of naturism

Anafi’s beaches are real gems, totally unspoilt and not a sun lounger or a beach bar in sight: just crystalline waters and absolute tranquillity. The beaches are not easy to access and telephone signals are hard to come by, so they are the ideal place to lie back and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Kleisidi: a stretch of white sand framed by the rock above and a few trees where you can take refuge in the shade. A beach suitable for everyone.

Katsouni: a tiny cove and the ideal spot for anyone hoping to lose all sense of time and put off the ferry home.

Flamourou: a narrow strip of sand you can reach on foot from Katsouni.

Roukounas: one of the island’s most famous beaches, with an alternative atmosphere: the place to go if you travel with your backpack and a tent and sometimes forget your swimsuit. This beach has always been one of the symbols of Anafi.

Agii Anargiri: dominated by a little church (watch out, the story goes that whoever visits this beach with their other half will soon marry) that casts an amazing shadow of the chapel onto the beach itself.

Monastiri: this beach is spacious and easy to access.

Livoskopo: my favourite, in the north of the island. Getting to it is a challenge and you have to follow a path with a steep drop down to the sea.

Where and what to eat in Anafi: Taverns and local products that can’t be missed

The local products of Anafi are unique and delicious, and you can try them in all the taverns on the island. The island is famous for its honey production, aromatic herbs and saffron. Anafi also produces an excellent natural wine (Ktima Flamourou) produced with a grape variety, called gaidourià, only present in the island.

You won’t find countless restaurants or taverns in Anafi, but they all offer local cuisine and products, and each has its own peculiarity.

For breakfast

To Kafeneio (Chora)
Tholos (Chora)
Argo (Chora)
Floran (Port)

For lunch

Margarita (Kleisidi)
The Mule and the Pig (Kleisidi)
Pappadià (Roukounas)
Loupa Bar (Roukounas)

For dinner

Anemo (Chora)
Liotrivi (Chora)
Nektaria (Porto)
Steki (Chora)
Armenaki (Chora)
Bandieroli (Chora)

For a Souvlaki

Petrino (Chora)
Sokaki (Chora)

The unexpected side of Anafi, its sparkling nightlife

On such a small island and one with such a slow pace, you might not expect any nightlife worth mentioning, but you’d be wrong! In high season (July and August), the night is young (or for the young) but starts late.

Steki: a tavern that comes to life every evening with live music. At a certain time, the tables are cleared away and the dancing begins!
Armenaki: open from breakfast time until late at night, book a table for dinner and listen to rebetika music as you sip your raki.
Monolithos: a cocktail bar under the stars with excellent music and records.
Mylos: a club with an Eighties feel and wave music. With different DJs every evening.
Mantres: the club with the most beautiful view you have ever seen. Dance until morning as you watch the moon slowly make way for the sun.

Anafi, an island for artists and culture lovers

Anafi has always been an island for the “chosen few,” certainly for those who dare and want to be away from everything and everyone. This is also why it has always welcomed artists, writers (even international!) and those who generally love culture.

In the summer of 2024, a beautiful and sought-after bookstore opened at the Arsenale port where you can find fiction books, contemporary art and culture magazines and many other surprises. It is worth visiting the bookstore just to admire the beautiful marble table and the refined atmosphere.

In summer Anafi also hosts interesting festivals!

Anafi International Film Festival – copyright Alexandra Riba/AIFF

Anafono: two-day festival of traditional music where you can also learn to take your first steps following the locals in typical Greek dances. A weekend dedicated to sharing a love of musical tradition with musicians from mainland Greece and other islands.
Phenomenon: a Biennale of contemporary culture that hosts artists, performers, and writers from all over the world. For two weeks (usually the end of June and the beginning of July every other year, the next will be in 2026) the entire island becomes the stage for exhibitions, performances, and readings. A really interesting way to discover the island.
Anafi International Film Festival: five days of cinema under the stars. Short films from all over the world are screened in the Anafi school basketball court and other locations on the island, followed by discussions with the films’ directors, and parties dedicated to the seventh art.

When is the best time to visit Anafi?

Each season has its own plus points. The springtime has the calmest and most rejuvenating atmosphere, June and September are probably the best months, when everything is open and there are still very few tourists. July and August are the months when you’ll find most tourists but I’m sure you’ll still manage to enjoy the beauty of the island. If you want to visit the island off season, it is even more difficult to get there but you’ll undoubtedly enjoy an authentic local atmosphere and keep the 150 residents of Anafi company (come and look me up!)

The beauty of Anafi captivated me right from the first time I saw Kalamos out of the window of the ferry. Walking around the island, breathe in the scents of earth and of freedom. Anafi is an island where you arrive thinking you know what to expect only to be blown away by its wild and unspoilt beauty.

Santorini is an island like no other, and that’s what draws so many visitors to it from all over the world. Have you booked your trip to Santorini for this summer? Here’s some insider tips for an unforgettable experience that will make you fall in love with one of the world’s most famous islands.

Let’s get a few things straight: this article has been written by someone who first visited Santorini in 2005, kept coming back on holiday for 12 years and in 2017 finally moved here to fulfil their dream of living on the island of blue roofs and spectacular sunsets.
If you ask me whether three days are enough for a visit to Santorini, my answer is no. A three-day stay in Santorini is enough to whet your appetite to return again and again. Appetite comes with eating (and in Santorini you can certainly eat well, if you know where to go that is…).

Visiting Santorini: my insider tips

Santorini is an island covering around 90km²; it’s not huge, but neither is it tiny. And, most importantly, there are so many things to see and do.

This is my ideal itinerary for exploring Santorini in three days while avoiding, as much as possible, the hordes of tourists during the hotter months (and I’m not just talking about the weather!).

To avoid the tourism at its height, I’d suggest you visit Santorini in spring or in October if you can. These are both times of year when the weather is also a bit milder and exploring the island is a more pleasant experience.

If you’ve already booked your flight to Santorini, it’s absolutely essential that you look for your ideal accommodation. I’d advise you to stay in the south of the island where it’s more traditional and authentic and less crowded than Fira and Oia, the two most famous villages. Choose what’s right for you (hotel, B&B, private apartment,…) in the villages of Akrotiri and Emporio, but if you’re visiting Santorini as a family, you may prefer Perissa and being a stone’s throw away from the volcanic sands of Black Beach.

Now that you have your sleeping arrangements sorted out, it’s time to organise your three-day itinerary in Santorini. It will be a mix of well-known and less familiar tourist destinations, as there must be a reason why everyone wants to visit the island of sunsets!

Day 1 in Santorini: the traditional village of Pyrgos and the sunset in Oia

Once you’ve settled in, waste no time and set off to explore Santorini. You’re on one of the world’s most famous volcanic islands and you’ll be blown away by the infinite beauty of the caldera.

If you’ve decided to visit Santorini, it could also be because you heard somewhere about the glorious sunsets of Oia.

Although I’d advise you to visit Oia at sunrise (the village is empty and the light is incredible!), I know that you’ll probably (and understandably) want to watch, at least once in your life, the sun sink into the Aegean Sea from Santorini´s most famous village. In such a case, start your holiday in Santorini in Pyrgos and stroll through the narrow streets of this quaint village. If you have a car, you can drive to Profitis Ilias, the highest point on the island, for a breathtaking 360˚ view of Santorini.

Alternatively, you can enjoy some wine tasting at Hatzidakis, one of the island’s most renowned wineries. Then make your way north, armed with patience and awareness: everything has a price; watching the sun go down from the castle in Oia will certainly not be a romantic or solitary experience, but it’s sure to be something to remember. But if you trust me blindly, follow the itinerary in reverse order: explore Oia early in the morning and then go south to finish off your day in Pyrgos, sipping a cocktail at Franco’s at the top of the village.

Day 2 in Santorini: history, tomato fritters and the capital Fira

Your second day starts with a bit of history: book a guided tour of the Akrotiri archaeological site. Stroll through the narrow streets of the Pompeii of the Aegean, where time has stood still since around 1600 BC, and discover the secrets of a highly evolved civilisation (they already had two-storey houses and a complete sewage system!).

Have you ever eaten in a cave? Well, you’ll get the chance to do so on Santorini at Cave of Nikolas, a historic tavern on the water where you can savour the best tomato fritters on the island. Opposite the restaurant you can take the taxi boat that goes to and from White Beach, Red Beach and Black Beach (I’m not joking; Santorini is a volcano, remember!).

If you fancy a visit to another very traditional village, head south to Emporio and you can also make a quick stop on the way at the wild beach of Vlychada and, if you have time, visit the Tomato Industrial Museum (yes, there is such a thing, and it’s really interesting too!).

Book a table for dinner at Panigyri for a gastronomic experience; who cares that there’s no view?! Afterwards you can walk to the caldera, enjoy a more peaceful, illuminated Fira at nighttime and have a drink at PK Cocktail Bar.

Day 3 in Santorini: the Heart of Megalochori, music and the volcano seen from up close

Start your day off with a coffee and a tiropita at Erotokrito, one of Santorini’s finest bakeries, and make your way to the Heart of Megalochori. I don’t mean the centre of the village, though; I’m talking about a rather hidden spot on the caldera that not everyone knows about. Here you’ll admire the infinite beauty of the volcano.

Then carry on to the centre of the village and visit Yiannis and his Symposion, a cultural centre dedicated to music and mythology. At this point you’ll forget that you’re in Santorini! For lunch or a simple snack, take a seat at the wonderful Traditional Kafeneio of Megalochori, order a nice Greek coffee and soak up the atmosphere.

If you’re well organised, in the afternoon you can take a trip on a catamaran and explore the caldera from the sea, get close to the volcano, take a dip in the hot springs and enjoy the sunset from an exceptional spot.

I get the feeling that you’re acquiring a taste for Santorini and you would like to this itinerary to go on with a Day 4 and maybe a Day 5… But no, we said the itinerary would only cover three days because you’ll keep coming back, right?! I guarantee it! While you get on with checking the next flights to Santorini, I’ll start writing another travel itinerary for you, as there’s still so much more to see.

Wine has a long history on the island of Santorini, dating back to the prehistoric Thera. The island’s volcanic soil plays a key role in making such exquisite wine, preventing pests like phylloxera, which destroyed many of Europe’s oldest vineyards making it one of the oldest wines.

The wine is characterised by highly acidic, mineral, and salty notes. The unique Santorini way of vine pruning, kouloura, protects grapes from the wind and scorching sun, and collects water from the air.

Assyrtiko, Aidani, and Athiri are the white grape varieties, and Mavrotragano and Mandilaria are the red ones. Vinsanto, the highly-reputed Santorini sweet wine, is made using these white grape varieties! With the variety Assyrtiko, they also make the renowned Nykteri (meaning ‘of the night’) because, back in the day, the process took place exclusively at night!

santorini panorama and 2 glasses of wine

So, where can you learn more about how these wines are made, and enjoy some of their unique flavours? Grab a glass, book your flight to Santorini, and I’ll tell you about some of my favourite Santorini Wineries!

Sigalas Winery

The myth, legend, and artist that is Paris Sigalas started this winery, experimenting extensively with the red grape variety known as Mavrotragano to produce a very well-known wine! Production is small-scale, so bottles are limited.

Another very interesting experiment is the 7 villages, an experiment taking place across different terroirs. The process essentially involves taking a grape variety and growing it in 7 different locations on the island and comparing them, to taste how small changes in the vine’s environment and micro-climate play a big role in how the wine ends up tasting. Perfection’s in the details.

This stunning vineyard venue offers great cuisine, and an alternative to watch the sunset!

Vassaltis WINERY

The Vassaltis winery, in the village of Vourvoulos, is surrounded by vineyards overlooking the sea. Its relaxed and friendly atmosphere make it the perfect choice to sample food and wine.

I usually take my dog and a good read, and head over for quite a light lunch, paired with theirs, Petnat, my personal favourite sparkling wine – one of two produced on the island! And as for my dog, well, Minimi gets both love and water!

Art space winery

Art Space is a small family winery owned by Mr. Antonis, with a history dating back to 1861.

This winery expertly blends wine with art. Check our the old canavas, and discover how the wine was traditionally made! Some of them have even been turned into an art gallery!

GAIA WINERY

This is a unique winery right on Monolithos’ beach, which produces one of my favourite wines, Thalassitis, meaning ‘of the sea’.

Mr Paraskeuopoulos has a very interesting experiment with this wine. He takes the bottles and submerges them under the sea, where they’re left to age for five years. When the bottles are retrieved, not many survive. Some have shattered, others are filled with sea water, but the ones that survive are well worth the wait and hard work! Leto and Mike will be there to explain more!

glass of wine grape and sand in santorini

HATZIDAKIS WINERY

This winery is located in Pyrgos and is surrounded by vineyards, and has a big, traditional cave keeping temperatures naturally perfect for wine production and ageing.

ARGIROS WINERY

Argiros has a beautiful winery with a modern architectural design, and their wines have delicate flavours. My favourite here is the Cuvée Monsignori, made using 200-year-old Assyrtiko vines!

GAVALAS WINERY

This family winery in the village of Megalochori has experimented with some old and rare grape varieties found on the island, like Katsano and Voudomato. They also produce their famous blue bottle of wine – one of my favourites!

VENETSANOS WINERY

Venetsanos Winery’s location on Caldera Cliff, right above the Port of Athinios, is no coincidence! Back in the day, the winery and the port were connected, and the wine would flow straight down to the port via pipes, where it was then exported. This is a beautiful romantic location overlooking the gorgeous Caldera!

MIKRA THIRA

A brand-new winery located on the island of Thirassia opens this year! Take the Latza taxi boat from the port of Ammoudi in Oia, and within 10 minutes, you can spend the whole day on beautiful Thirassia! Be it swimming, cycling, or walking, explore the island’s beautiful villages and wild nature, and end your day with a glass of their Terrasea wine!

This is a list of some of my favourite Santorini wineries. I hope you’ll love them as much as I do! Contact me and let me know how you got on and which was your favourite!

We all know about Santorini’s beautiful sunsets, its caldera, and the Three Blue Domes, but is that all?

Santorini is an island of never-ending change, evolving throughout time, both geologically and culturally. Even the name has changed at least five times!

The deep and changing beauty of Santorini

Santorini has so much depth, literally and metaphorically. Countless luminaries have passed through the island: kings and queens, dukes and lords, pirates and merchants, poets and dreamers, lovers and honeymooners!

As a Santorini local for 31 years, I can say that this place has mesmerized and inspired me, and become a part of who I am today: a proud Islander. Allow me introduce you to some of the hidden gems and excursions this land, that I love so much, has to offer.

1. View the caldera brimming with life

Looking at the volcano with its rough, pitch-black lava rocks, you would be excused for thinking the area is inhospitable to life, but you would be wrong! A visit in the springtime reveals a green veil over its slopes, as well as wild goats jumping here and there!

2. Try the island’s sweet wine

vinsanto grapes — Vinsanto grape preparation at the Gavalas Winery

vinsanto glass — A glass of Vinsanto at the Gavalas Family Winery

3. Enjoy an alternative sunset view from the old Santorini Mill in Perissa

4. Enjoy the sunset from Katharos Beach

After watching the sunset, savour some vegetarian and vegan delicacies at the Meze Bar next to the beach!

5. View of the small island of Saint Nicholas, the protector of sailors, from Oia

6. Discover depictions of Minoan Art commemorating springtime in the alleyways of Oia

For more, visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira.

7. Bask in the tranquillity of Thirassia’s abandoned villages

thirassia church — A colourful church in an abandoned village on the island of Thirassia, Agrilia.

Visitors who arrive on 21 November for the celebration of the Virgin Mary are greeted with local wine, “Panigiri” Greek food, and regional music! Yum!

8. Take in the beautiful deep waters and traditional boat houses of Thirassia

Fishermen used to store their boats in small cave houses, built into the rock.

9. White and blue, the colours of Santorini, epitomise summer

10. Don’t forget to take photos at the golden hour

11. Stroll through beautiful Megalochori, the Village of the Arts!

Megalochori + art = Symposion by La Ponta! A must-see destination for music and mythology.

Can you hear light? Yannis, the co-owner Symposion by La Ponta, will show you how! A musician and instrument craftsman, he will also demonstrate how to make ancient Greek instruments in his workshop.

making of ancient greek flute — An ancient Greek flute in the making.

When you hear the sound of the tsampouna, you can’t help but dance! It’s an automatic reflex, like blinking your eyes.

12. Dine on Ouzo and “Xtapodaki” octopus, the ultimate Greek meze, at one of Ammoudi’s charming old port taverns!

13. Explore Vlyhada Beach with its eroded sand cliffs

14. Get to know the donkeys of Santorini

Santorini’s donkeys look better without riders. Happy donkeys, happy life!

Now that you know the island a little better, there is only one more thing left to do: book your flight to Santorini and let’s talk more on your arrival over a glass of Vinsanto! Opa!

Santorini, or “the most beautiful”, according to its ancient name “Kallisté”, is a wonderful island forming part of the Cyclades in the Aegean Sea, around 100km from Crete and less than a three-hour flight from Athens. As well as its beautiful scenery and architecture, Santorini is excellent for shopping.

Article updated on the 20th of February 2024

In the centre of Fira and Oia, the two main towns, there’s always a lively atmosphere. The white houses topped with the typical blue domes offer a stunning view of the sea and invite you to explore the very special culture of this Greek tourist destination. Clinging to the cliffs, the nicest shops selling arts & crafts and ceramics provide a showcase for items inspired by findings from archaeological sites, and the local market stalls display a whole range of vases, plates, ornaments, etc.

Taking time to visit Santorini and its little hillside villages is definitely the best way to discover its many myths and hidden treasures, and while you’re enjoying the 360˚ itinerary of Santorini, don’t forget to look out for local products to take home with you.

To help you, we’ve chosen some markets and artisan shops that are well worth visiting in Santorini.

Where to shop in Santorini

Typical markets in Santorini: the fruit market

Where to find it: Oia, Santorini

What makes this market different from the other street stalls is its schedule, as it usually sets up in the early evening. After a few hours spent lazing on a volcanic beach or strolling along the trails exploring the prettiest villages and viewpoints, biting into freshly picked fruit is a particularly pleasurable experience. The fruit market in Oia is always very crowded, colourful and vibrant. Enjoying the intoxicating aromas of the fruit and the cooler temperatures of the evening is a lovely thing to do for locals and visitors alike. A great way to relax and recharge your batteries!

The little fish market in Santorini

Where to find it: Piazza Theotokopoulou, Fira

The popular central Piazza Theotokopoulou in Fira, the capital of Santorini, is a nice place to watch the world go by and get a view of everyday life on the island. Here, as well as lots of bars and souvenir shops, you’ll also find a small fish market. We’d recommend you come early in the morning for the catch of the day, because it sells out fast. Once here, take the opportunity to visit the Orthodox Cathedral and the art galleries in the area, and to try one of the many excellent restaurants or bakeries in the town.

Arts & Crafts in Santorini: The Secret Room

Where to find it: Mirtidiotissis, Kamari 847 00, Greece

The Secret Room has some very interesting giftware, accessories and clothing, perfect as a memento of Santorini, with original and creative souvenirs. This shop, up on high, has a range of handmade items that are locally sourced or come from the major Greek cities. You’ll find colourful fabrics, woven jewellery, bowls and other artisan ceramic items, T-shirts and lightweight summer garments.

The shop, with its warm and welcoming atmosphere, is near Kamari beach, one of the most charming spots in Santorini. Open every day, including Sundays, until 11pm.

Where to buy ceramics in Santorini

1260° CERAMIC STUDIO

Where to find it: Megalochori 847 00, Greece

The 1260°Ceramic studio, owned by Marina Taliadourou and Giannis Vlantonopoulos, displays ceramic tableware inspired by Santorini life and nature. The black volcanic soil, the red terracotta, the blue of the sea, the white and the orange-red hues of the sunset all come together in these unique pieces. The studio is named after a technique used to produce ceramics, by firing them only once at high temperatures.

The studio can be found on the south side of the island, just a few metres from the junction for Akrotiri.

CANAVA

Where to find it: Oia, Thira 847 02, Greece

Perched high up in Thira, close to the Archaeological Museum, the Canava boutique has many gift options for friends and family: ceramic objects in all different colours, stoles, woven bags, hats, fine fabrics, paintings and postcards. Many of these items are handmade by local artisans. You’ll also find here the four varieties of olive oil produced on the island, as well as some local wines.

Shopping in Santorini: where to buy local wine

SANTO WINES: TASTINGS AND VINEYARD TOUR

Where to find it: Pyrgos Kallistis 847 00, Grecia

You can’t spend a few days in Santorini without visiting a picturesque vineyard, cultivated in the old way and capable of offering a wine with a characteristic taste. Santo Wines Winery is one of the wineries that regularly welcomes tourists who love their wine. Its shop sells all the wines produced and including gift sets: after a stroll around the estate, guests can taste the finest bottles accompanied by local cheeses or other delicacies on the terrace.

Santo Wines Winery is located in Pyrgos Kallistis, the highest village on the island in terms of altitude. Many go there to admire the stunning views of Santorini and to visit the shops and wine cellars. The Santo Wines estate is less than 10 minutes’ drive away from Santorini’s domestic airport. The villas and hotels in the vicinity could be a good option for accommodation in the archipelago.

Santorini, splendid all year round

When visiting this Greek island, immerse yourself in the sensory experiences of the outdoor markets. Fragrances, colours, atmosphere… they’ll offer you a complete change of scenery to help you recharge your batteries.

And whilst there are more frequent events held during the summer months, remember that the artisan workshops and ceramicists of Santorini open their doors all year round. Experience Greece differently, maybe by also trying new experiences along the steep trails carved out during the volcanic eruption of the 16^th century BC.

This Greek island is on the bucket list of almost every traveller the world over. It is literally perched on the cliff edge, and boasts captivating sunsets, tiny white houses, blue-domed churches, the smallest cherry tomatoes and unique wine varieties. We are of course referring to Santorini, the island in the Cyclades that has managed to capture the hearts of even the most demanding travellers.

Wherever you walk, wherever you look, the island gives you a reason to grab your camera or your mobile phone and capture the moment. You’ll want to take pictures of the sunset, the pure white side streets, the pink bougainvillea nestled against a blue window, an old bicycle leaning against a white wall, a belfry overlooking the sea. Everything around you is a reason to take a picture.

Since Santorini is very crowded, the secret to taking pictures is to avoid mornings and evenings. So set your alarm to somewhere between 5 and 7 and you’ll be able to capture the colours of the sunrise while everyone else is asleep. However, if you’re not a morning person, try going for a walk between 2 and 4 in the afternoon, when most people are enjoying their lunch or taking a nap.

But which are the most instagrammable places, and how can you find them?

Oia

The church of the Resurrection

Starting in the well-known village of Oia, the best spot for a perfect photo is the church of the Resurrection, with its pink belfry. There is a tiny side street just before the Melenio café: follow it and you’ll find yourself in front of a small wooden door that will take you out above the church. This is the best spot to take pictures

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

Una publicación compartida de MARIA KóFOU ╳ Tstories.gr ✈️ (@travelstoriesfromyworld) el 2 May, 2017 a las 1:34 PDT

The church of St. Spiridona

Just before the aforementioned church is the church of Saint Spiridona, whose belfry is just as spectacular. From here, you can also take a picture of the church of the Resurrection, with both churches fitting into the frame. To find this spot, walk through the main street and when you see Bulgari on your left, enter the alley and cross it, turning first to your left and then to your right.

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

Una publicación compartida de MARIA KóFOU ╳ Tstories.gr ✈️ (@travelstoriesfromyworld) el 3 May, 2017 a las 2:21 PDT

Fyra

The church of St. John the Theologian

From Theotokopoulos Square and with the church of Ypapanti on your left, you will come to a street with steps leading down. From here, you’ll be able to see the characteristic grey and white dome of Saint John the Theologian. Take pictures from up above, but make sure you don’t miss out the church itself and the chance to photograph it at close range. It is one of the few churches that literally offers access over its dome.

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

Una publicación compartida de MARIA KóFOU ╳ Tstories.gr ✈️ (@travelstoriesfromyworld) el 29 Abr, 2017 a las 5:54 PDT

Imerovigli

The dome of the Resurrection

The superb dome of the Resurrection in Imerovigli, along with the fantastic view of the small island of Nea Kameni and the Caldera, is another lovely instagrammable spot from which to take pictures.

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

Una publicación compartida de MARIA KóFOU ╳ Tstories.gr ✈️ (@travelstoriesfromyworld) el 3 May, 2017 a las 8:19 PDT

Created by a massive volcanic explosion that blew the middle out of the island some 3600 years ago, Santorini’s caldera, a huge sea-filled crater, is one of the world’s most dramatically beautiful natural sights, along with he island’s bizarre black sand beaches that rim the southeast coast. Perched 300m above the caldera, the cliff-top towns of Fira and Oia are made up of whitewashed Cycladic buildings and blue-domed churches (just like on the postcards), plus gourmet restaurants and lavish hotels with infinity pools. The island is very couple-oriented – Tara Reid and Zack Kehanyov had their honeymoon here in 2011 – and appeals to those who like their romance glitzy.