Having deliberately carved out a well-deserved break from your professional commitments, meticulously arranged affairs back home, and embarked on a journey or eagerly contemplating a journey to the enchanting realm of Santorini, Greece. The question now arises: what awaits you once you arrive?
1.Take a scenic prelude by riding the ferry from Athens to Santorini.
You CAN fly to the island, however, taking the ferry can add its own authentic flavor to the experience and most often is more cost-efficient than taking a plane. Not only is this an efficient mode of transport, but it also allows you to get a glimpse of the breathtaking scenery of some of the other islands such as Cyrus and Mykonos along the way. We booked our ferry with Seajets and the above picture is one of the stops at the port of Cyrus that was just one of many breathtaking sights along the way. Coffee, spanikopita, pastries, and other snacks were available for purchase or you can bring your own if you like. The ferry wasn’t by any means as glamorous as a first-class seat on a few-hour plane ride, but it definitely added to the authenticity of the journey to Santorini and allowed us a mini-tour of the other islands along the way.
Trip Tip: If there is anything to know before you go anywhere in Greece, EVERYTHING runs on time and if you’re late, they won’t wait. Make sure to be at the ferry port at least 15-30 minutes early because I assure you, they WILL leave sharply at the designated time. That goes for anything you have tentatively scheduled in Greece as far as time designation.
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2. Stay on Kamari Beach: Sun, Sea, and Serenity
-This was just one of many beautiful sunrises on Kamari Beach outside of the Costa Grand Hotel-
Upon arriving in Santorini, head to Kamari Beach for a relaxing stay. Kamari Beach is known for its laid-back atmosphere, waterfront tavernas, and a myriad of water activities, all of which are within walking distance from most of the hotels in that area. Kamari Beach has a quaint village feel, bustling with local businesses and delectable cuisine, in my opinion, it was a more intimate version of Santorini. We arrived at the end of October which is just when their season is ending and it couldn’t have been a more perfect time to visit. Everything was still open, and it offered a more intimate experience overall. Kamari Beach is by far one of the best places to stay in Santorini, wake up early and catch the sun rising over the Aegean sea, creating a sunlit glaze over the volcanic ash and rock that lines Kamari Beach. Additionally, If you have a rental car (which I highly suggest when in Santorini) surrounding villages, such as the infamous Oia, are a mere 20-30 minutes’ drive away from each other. And did I mention Kamari Beach also offers some of the most intimate sunrise and sunsets on the island?
Trip Tip: I highly recommend staying at Costa Grand Resort and Spa, breakfast is included, and within walking distance of all the shops and restaurants in the beautiful village of Kamari, and it is located right on the scenic volcanic ash-covered black sand beach.
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3. Step back in time at the Ruins of Akrotiri
On your way to Red Beach, you’ll first be greeted with an opportunity to explore the ruins of Akrotiri. This ancient city is a Minoan Bronze Age settlement frozen in time by volcanic ash. Wooden walkways guide visitors through the remarkably preserved streets and buildings, providing an immersive experience of the ancient city. The on-site museum houses a collection of artifacts and frescoes, offering additional context to the archaeological wonders discovered at the site. The wealth of artifacts, including pottery, tools, and everyday items, provides invaluable insights into the daily lives and customs of the Minoan people.
Trip Tip: Set aside at least 2-3 hours to explore Akrotiri. Guided and self tours are offered free of charge or you can scan the handy QR codes posted when you walk in to listen in and go at your own pace.
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4. Discover Red Beach
-A view along the trail heading to the swimming area of Red Beach-
After indulging in the rich history of the Ruins of Akrotiri, embark on an awe-inspiring 20-minute stroll to the famed Red Beach. This iconic destination earns its name from the striking crimson cliffs and dark sand that paint a mesmerizing natural tapestry, making it an absolute must-see for both nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Trip Tip: To fully enjoy the journey, I recommend donning sneakers or comfortable shoes suitable for navigating the rocky and uneven terrain, as the path to the beach lacks a paved trail. Keep in mind that the sunbathing area is relatively compact compared to other beaches on the island, so it’s advisable to arrive early or plan your visit during the off-season for a more tranquil and less crowded beach experience.
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5. Sightseeing and Photoshoot in Oia
-Photo Credit: Kimonas Patiniotis-Oia, Santorini, Greece-
A trip to Santorini is incomplete without immersing yourself in the magic of Oia. If you haven’t yet encountered the name, you’ll undoubtedly recognize it from the countless captivating pictures. This enchanting village, gracefully perched on the cliffs of Santorini, beckons with an unrivaled setting for capturing some of the most stunning Instagram-worthy moments and provides an idyllic haven for a romantic photoshoot with your significant other. Renowned for its iconic whitewashed structures, charming cobblestone streets adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, panoramic cliffside views of the caldera, and the Aegean Sea’s deep blue expanse stretching to the horizon, Oia is unequivocally one of the most breathtaking sights you’ll ever see.
Trip Tip: If you’re envisioning a proposal in one of the most iconic engagement spots on the planet, consider enlisting the talents of Kimonas Patiniotis, an exceptional local photographer based in Oia who captured my and my fiance’s engagement beautifully. Known for his skill in authentically capturing those unforgettable moments, Kimonas can turn your special occasion into a beautifully immortalized memory.
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6. Sunset Cruise and Hike to Nea Kamari Volcano
-Almost to the top of Nea Kamari Volcano-
Immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of a Santorini sunset is an experience elevated to unparalleled heights when enjoyed from the deck of a sunset cruise. Not only do you witness the sun’s fiery descent into the Aegean Sea, but if you book with the Aphrodite, you also embark on an adventure to the active Volcano of Nea Kamari. The cruise offers a unique opportunity to step ashore and partake in a guided walking tour to the volcano’s summit, where panoramic views of the island and the sea unfold before you. After taking in the breathtaking sites from the top of the volcano, the cruise takes you to a nearby location to indulge in a swim in the natural healing hot spring, thanks to the iron and sulfur deposits seeping from the nearby Nea Kamari volcano. As the day draws to a close, the cruise sets sail into the Agean Sea while you enjoy a delicious traditional Greek dinner. Once the cruise has reached a point near the Caldera you can enjoy a complimentary glass of local wine with the setting sun casting a golden glow on the sea.
Trip Tip: I don’t recommend wearing a white bathing suit as the iron deposits in the spring will leave noticeable stains on your white attire, colorful materials were spared and my paisely multi-colored bathing suit washed out fine afterwards, but white may stain. Also, if you’re not used to hiking continuously uphill to the very top of a volcano, there is seating along the way to take a breather or simply stay and take in the scenery, the view from the top is absolutely worth it though so be sure to hit the treadmill on incline mode to get ready!
-This beautiful sunset captured from the Aphrodite ship during our sunset cruise-
Santorini, with its unique blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and charming villages, is a destination that captivates the hearts of travelers. From the ferry journey that unveils the splendor of the Aegean to the serene days on Kamari Beach and the awe-inspiring moments in Oia, every experience on this Greek island is a memory waiting to be cherished. Santorini is more than a destination; it’s a journey into a realm where the past meets the present, and every sunset marks the promise of a new adventure.
See more from our adventures by following our Instagram page __WeekendWanderlust__ !
