Santorini
volcanic scenes & sunset dreams
There’s something about Santorini that is truly magical; it could be the panoramic views over the caldera, the black sand beaches or the white & pastel buildings perching on the cliff edge – or maybe it’s a little bit of everything. This picturesque Greek island is often found on bucket lists and it’s very easy to see why. From a long weekend to a week-long holiday or even a spot of island hopping, Santorini is a must.
Many visit for the first time by ship – a cruise around the Greek Isles is an increasingly popular option, for couples & families alike, but if you really want to soak up all that Santorini has to offer, you’re going to need more than a day. From the bustling Capital of Fira (or Thera) to the quaint town of Oia on the Northwestern tip, to the clifftop village of Imerovigli – adorned with luxury hotels – there’s something for everything in this Cycladic island paradise. What does your adventure look like?
Facts about Santorini
Currency – Euro
4 hour flight time
Island has more churches than houses
2 million tourists visit annually
Why should you travel to Santorini with us?
Over the years, we’ve spent a lot of time exploring Santorini so not only do we know all the popular spots to check out, we know the off-the-beaten-path places, too. From cave hotels to infinity pools with endless views; from delicious meze plates to mouthwatering street gyros; from renting a scooter to touring the island on an ATV, our travel experts are here to help plan your perfect island getaway to Santorini. You really do need to witness the sunset yourself to believe how mesmerising it is!
Some of our favourite resorts in Santorini
Mystique, a luxury collection hotel
Carved into the rugged caldera cliffs of Oia, overlooking the expansive turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea, Mystique, A Luxury Collection Hotel is shaped by nature and very much enhanced by style. A favoured destination for Honeymoons and romantic escapes, the resorts 41 suites & villas, 2 pools, rejuvenating spa, 3 dining options and more provide a luxurious retreat on the Northern coast of the island.
On-site dining includes some of the freshest locally inspired cuisine; a high-end gastronomical experience in Lure by Olivier Campanha and a casual venue, occupying the site of a century-old mansion. The aesthetic of the entire resort is a modern, incredibly elegant palette of light, earthy tones & wooden highlights. For a truly romantic stay, our luxury experts recommend an Allure Suite, featuring a jacuzzi & glass cabin shower, as well as a private terrace with dining area & sun loungers.
Grace, an Auberge Resorts Collection
Any hotel which is named as #1 in Greece and #2 in the world* is going to be special – Grace is exactly that – a clifftop escape in Imerovigli with whitewashed walls & panoramic views across the caldera. After your first sumptuous meal overlooking the infinity pool at sunset, you’ll soon be under the spell of Santorini. From Deluxe Rooms to Suites to the Villa, a private retreat awaits in this picturesque location.
Whether you choose to eat at the resort after your sundowner cocktail – with a blend of Greek & Mediterranean flavours by Michelin-awarded chef Lefteris Lazarou – or make the short journey into Fira, a world of flavour awaits, perhaps whilst sampling some of their local wine. Whether you want to unwind in your plunge pool or charter a yacht for a day floating around the Aegean Sea, our travel experts are here to make sure your luxury stay is unforgettable, with a little help from Grace.
(*Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Award 2022)
Things to do in Santorini
Akrotiri
Visit this Bronze Age settlement during your visit to this volcanic island. After being destroyed by an eruption during the 16th century BC, excavations began in 1967 uncovering fine frescoes, artwork & more. Located on the southern coast, exploring Akrotiri is a great way to spend a cultural half-day along with a stop-off at Red Beach.
Horse Riding Experience
Experience the magic of this island as you explore on horseback. With a number of different tours available - from the beaches to the clifftops - your private guide is on hand to narrate through the landscapes, as well as snap those perfect pictures to help capture your memory. It doubles as a great cause to visit the village of Megalochori, too.
Santo Winery
You may feel that 'Greece' & 'wine' aren't often found in the same sentence... but Santo Winery will make you reconsider. From the terraces of the winery with views across the caldera, indulge your senses in a wine tasting experience. For the connoisseurs among us, opt for the winery tour - it's also one of the most popular wedding venues on the island!
Kamari's Open-Air Cinema
For a romantic evening watching a movie under the starlit sky of Santorini, stop by the Open-Air Cinema in Kamari on the Eastern coast. Showing a range of movies (in English with Greek subtitles) - complete with full bar service, of course - this is perhaps an unexpected, yet wonderful way to while away the hours at dusk.
ATV Tour of the Island
If you prefer to explore a little more 'off-road', then look no further than an ATV tour - we recommend the Seafood Lovers option as you ride through the unknown parts of Santorini to discover the beautiful landscapes, completing the journey with a delicious lunch. Similarly, you could opt for a tour via the winery or even at sunset - a fantastically fun few hours.
Private Yacht Charter
There's no doubt that the view of the caldera is incredible... but so is the view of the island from the water; a private yacht charter delivers that and much more. Discover striking volcanic formations & hidden swimming holes during this excursion, perhaps sailing as far as Mykonos, complete with transfers, guide, beverages & available for up to 6 guests.
Book with us today
Now is always the best time to book your next holiday and we’re here to take all of your stress away. Simply get in touch with our travel experts for an initial consultation and whether you need a little inspiration or know exactly what you want – with a little help from us – you’ll soon be jetting off to your next destination.
