I Itinerary Santorini – My Travel Story and Blog

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SANTORINI

Itinerary

Suggested Duration: 3 Days, 2 Nights
BEST TIME TO VISIT SANTORINI:
April to September

CLICK FOR A SPECIALIZED ITINERARY

My Thoughts on Santorini

From the moment my Ferry arrived at the marina, I knew I was in for a spellbinding ride. Santorini is one of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea. The volcanic eruption of the 16th century BC, forever shaped its landscape. The whitewashed, cubiform houses of its 2 principal towns, Fira and Oia, cling to cliffs above an underwater caldera (crater). Each home, a vision that overlooks the sea. You have small islands to the west and beaches made up of black, red and white lava pebbles at its core. Santorini is a dream that everyone would love to find themselves trapped in. A visit to Santorini is like a visit to "Blue and White" Heaven! Pictures unfortunately don't do this place justice. I could live, die and be buried in this wonderful island. If Santorini is this beautiful, I wonder how spectacular heaven actually is. Few would dispute that Santorini is the most beautiful of the fifty-six islands of the Cyclades. Starting with its capital ~ Fira. The village of Oia where the enchanting Luxury Collection Property, the Mystique, resides is one of the most beautiful villages I came across. The amazing colors of white, blue, and cream are in perfect harmony. Santorini is so mesmerizing and so enchanting, it takes a while to catch your breath or adjust your vision. It is glorious to say the least! Endeavor to visit the lovely town of Prygos and all the wonderful beaches of Santorini during your trip. Take in the black sand beaches, the sugar cube white buildings, explore the blue domed churches and stone patched twisting paths, get lost in the stunning Aegean Sea and marvel at the striking cliffs and dramatic coasts. Allow your jaw to drop in awe-struck wonder! This is Santorini! - a TE highly recommended destination. Remember to click on all pictures on this page to reveal additional photos or useful links. 

Airports to Fly Into

  • Santorini Airport (JTR)
  • Blue Star Ferries
  • (Distance from JTR airport to Santorini city center and Mystique Hotel: 10.6 miles. Distance from Mykonos to Santorini by ferry is 2-3 hours. (38 Euros to 75 Euros). Visit https://www.ferryhopper.com/en/ferry-routes/direct/mykonos-to-santorini for tickets. Click on photo to get airport website and travel information.

Where to Stay

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MYSTIQUE, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL
Oia, Santorini Island Santorini, Greece 84702 +30 2286 071114

My TE Spotlight always reflects where I stayed in each city and/or country. Mystique, located on the famous cliffs of Oia is a timeless, elegant, showstopper! Its dramatic white walls, traditional architecture overlooking cerulean blue waters makes it a dream to behold. Nestled within awe-inspiring calderas. Mystique is beyond your imagination. From stark white to a creamy beige, this place is heavenly and somewhat delicious to the senses. It takes seeing it to believe it! This hotel was among the first hotels built in Oia. Celebrities like Susan Sarandon, Eva Amurri, and more, have had the privilege of staying at the Mystique. Mystique is elegant, tranquil, with stunning views of the ocean. Black beach can be seen from here by those with 20/20 vision. Everyone must experience Mystique with its elemental design and its seamless blend of old and new. If its mysterious waters fail to move you, then one must truly check their pulse to ensure they are still alive! This place takes your breath away. It's garnered a massive TE's thumbs up for its great views, its comfort, and its amenities.

OTHER SUGGESTED PLACES TO STAY IN SANTORINI:

Vedema, a Luxury Collection Resort, Santorini (4 miles from city center)
Megalohori Santorini, Greece 84700 +30 2286 081796

Perivolas Hotel (4 miles from city center)
Oia, Santorini Greece 84702 +30 22860 71308

Erosantorini (1.86 miles from city center)
Main Road Fira - Pyrgos, Thira 847 00, Greece +30 2286 036396

(Side Bar Information: Ferry: Blue Star Ferries: EURO. Currency Exchange: $1 = €.84. Distance from port to City Center: 35 minutes. The quickest way to get from Santorini Airport (JTR) to Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Santorini, Oia is to taxi which costs $83.06 - $106 (€70 - €90) and takes 16 minutes. Approximate Taxi Fare from Port:  $43 - $65 (€45 - €55). For more hotels in Santorini, please visit the world wide web).

Where and What to Eat

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VISANTO

Visanto is a beachfront restaurant that offers amazing views and mouthwatering seafood. It is located on Kamari, Santorini 84700, Greece. This friendly restaurant with amazing staff make every penny you spend in Santorini, worth it. Their Chicken souvlaki and their mix fish dish were indescribably delicious and enough to feed a village. You'd love their generosity. The olives and Greek salads were also divine. They served complimentary water melons at the end of each meal which made my taste buds happy. They also have free sunbeds on site, which made for a splendid atmosphere. No wonder they have many rave reviews. Visanto is highly recommended by TE. Don't miss it. Price - $$. (<---Click Photo for More)

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Avra Santorini Restaurant

If you are up for a splurge and extremely delicious food, head to Avra Santorini Restaurant is located on Tholos Rd, Santorini 847 02, Greece. It is a Steakhouse, Bar, Seafood, Mediterranean slash Greek restaurant. This restaurant flies under most traveler's radar because it is located inside the Myst Boutique! The main chef, Chef George Skopelitis works his magic with fresh ingredients from the hotels ample gardens and local Greek fare. Something extremely peculiar happens at this restaurant. There are practically no menus, you sit and a flurry of dishes arrive in front of you. You are served whatever the chef feels like cooking that day, from appetizers, to entrees, to desserts. Be that as it may, not one dish disappointed. The most delicious food you'd come to taste in Santorini. The octopus was so good, its taste stayed in your mouth for hours. Highly recommended. Price: $$$. 

(Photo Credit to Original Copyright Owners: Click Photo to view----->)

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GYROs and OCTOPUS

One of the best things to try when visiting Santorini or any Greek island are gyros. They are flavorful and affordable especially for travelers on a budget. They can be purchased practically everywhere including restaurants and food stalls. In this part of the world, fries are added to your gyros. The textures and flavors of all the ingredients, meats, veggies and sauces combined leave you in a delicious food coma. Not trying a gyro while visiting Greece, should be a taboo. Gyros are to Greece, what Fish and chips are to the U.K., or waffles are to Belgium. It packs a punch when it comes to flavors and the sauces are truly delish. Taste this true indigenous staple when on the fly or if you are looking for a quick snack to hold you over before meal-time. Another definite must try - Octopus. You can see Octopus on ropes all around. I was told by the locals that if an Octopus isn't hung in the sun for 48 hours, it'll be hard to consume it. They become very tough and practically impossible to cook or tenderize. Price - $.

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Pacman Sunset Restaurant

A visit to Pacman Sunset Restaurant located on Oia 847 02, Greece, will leave you pleasantly surprised on all levels. One wouldn't expect to get a fantastic Japanese experience all the way in Greece, but Pacman defies the norm and turns your expectations on its head. If you are looking for Sushi and/or Mediterranean cuisines under dreamy sunset views in Oia, look no further. The service was exceptional and the sushi was melt in your mouth divine. Take it from a girl who traveled half way around the world to Tokyo just to get her sushi fix. Pacman Sunset Restaurant would make you do dangerous things to ensure you have a seat on the frontlines of nature. Vivid colors, mesmerizing vibes, good music, insanely delicious food, (try the wakame salad and the sea bass fish covered in salt), Pacman has it all. They exceeded every expectation in a "shut up and take my money" fashion. You got your money's worth on all levels: quality service, awesome Restaurant Manager, good times. If and when you visit Santorini, make sure you dedicate some funds to Pacman. This restaurant is a must! Price - $$$$. (Click Picture for More----->)

15 Best Things to See and Do

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Red Beach

Red Beach is one of the most famous and beautiful beaches in Santorini. It earns its name from the iron-rich sedimentary rocks and is located near the village and ancient site of Akrotiri. The beach's sand is composed of black and red pulverized volcanic rock from the nearby Santorini caldera. The area is prone to landslides, and since 2013 parts of the beach have been inaccessible as a result. (Click all photos on this page to view more)

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Perissa and Perivolos Beach

Perissa a nicely well organized area with beaches and good Greek fish taverns. The Marina. You can see Octopus on ropes all around. I was told by the locals that if an Octopus isn't hung in the sun for 48 hours, it'll be hard to consume it, as it'd be very tough and practically impossible to become tender when cooked. (<---Click Picture to view)

Akrotiri Excavation Site

The Akrotiri excavation site is a Cycladic cultural settlement on the Greek island of Santorini. The earliest evidence for human habitation of Akrotiri can be traced back as early as the fifth millennium BC, when it was a small fishing and farming village. However, it was destroyed in the Theran eruption sometime in the 16th century BC and buried in volcanic ash, which preserved the remains of fine frescoes and many objects and artworks. Akrotiri's strategic position on the primary sailing route between Cyprus and Minoan Crete also made it an important point for the copper trade, thus allowing it to become an important center for processing copper, as proven by the discovery of molds and crucibles there.  Akrotiri's prosperity continued for about another 500 years; paved streets, an extensive drainage system, the production of high quality pottery and further craft specialization all point to the level of sophistication achieved by the settlement. Credits to Wiki.(Click all photos to view------->)

Akrotiri Lighthouse

The Akrotiri Lighthouse towers above the Aegean Sea from the rocky cliffs of the area, which is on the most southwestern tip of the island. Many visitors spend their days visiting the alluring and enchanting towns of Oia and Fira, neglecting the others gems of this wonderful island. This lighthouse offers stunning views of the island, the ancient ruins of Akrotiri and of course, the nearby villages. Akrotiri lighthouse is about13 miles (8 km) from the capital of Santorini, Fira. A visit during sunset is probably the most romantic moment to enjoy the lighthouse in all its glory. End the night at one of the many surrounding tavernas and fish taverns that populate the area. (Click photo to view -------->)

Village of Oia

The highest point in Santorini, is in the village of Oia, right next to the monastery. There are 6 live Monks still living there. Visiting Oia, a coastal town on the northwestern tip of Santorini, a Greek Aegean island, is a necessity. This lovely town has whitewashed houses carved into the rugged clifftops, and overlooks a vast caldera filled with water. In a 19th-century mansion, the Naval Maritime Museum has exhibits on local seafaring history, including old figureheads, sailors chests and models of old ships. Nearby is the ruined Oia Castle, known for its sunset views. This very fascinating town lives up to its expectations. Make it a must to check out this side of Santorini. Credits to Wiki. (<------Click photo to view)

Vlihada Beach

Vlihada Beach is the last beach in the row of Perissa and Perivolos, right before Akrotiri. The pumice stone hills just behind the beach offer a calm, peaceful, and quiet environment. Unlike crowded Perivolos and Perissa, Vlihada is pristine and serene. Enroute to Vlihada, there is a tiny harbor, with traditional boats and fishermen boats. The fishermen hang their octopus on ropes under the sun to tenderize each octopus which is part of the cooking process. Vlihada is a perfect spot for those wishing to avoid the big crows. Meals and snacks can be found at a nearby cafeteria on a boat. Here you can also visit Santorini Arts Factory located exactly on the beach. It is a fully renovated old industrial complex of tomato production company D. Nomikos which after the donation of Nomikos Family hosts a tomato museum and various events and exhibitions.  (<------ Click photo to view)

Theros Wave Bar

Theros Wave Bar or Texas (as the area is fondly referred to by locals) is a bar in a desert-like landscape in Santorini. It is one of the best beach bars in the Mediterranean and is ideal for events, parties, weddings, receptions, etc. This hidden jewel is 20 minutes from the center of Fira - capital of Santorini. It is also 20 minutes from Kamari beach and 10 minutes from Perissa beach. It is located in a secluded place on the Aegean sea on the beach of Vlihada. It is famous for wedding beach ceremonies, since it is surrounded by beautiful and earthy nature. This unique landscape of extraordinary beauty, near Eros beach in Santorini island is a happening destination in the summer for locals and travelers alike. It is exotic, elegant and highly welcoming.

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The Three Bells of Fira

The Three Bells of Fira, also known as The Catholic Church of the Dormition, is a Greek Catholic church on the island of Santorini. The church is famous for its three bells, blue dome, and its picturesque views. The building is located in the town of Fira, directly above the cliffs which dominate western Santorini. The church's feast day is August 15th. The site had been occupied by a number of other buildings in the past. In the mid-17th century, two modest cave churches were built into the-then solid cliff face. These churches were eventually destroyed as the cliff receded (due to the ongoing expansion of Fira) and an infirmary was built. It was eventually occupied by Jesuits, who lived on the site until the land was given to the Diocese of Santorini. The current church was built in 1757, and then refurbished and expanded multiple times over the centuries. The structure was heavily damaged in the 1956 Amorgos earthquake, after which the building was restored (Click photo to view------>)

Santorini Cable Car

Santorini's cable car connects the port with the town of Thera in Santorini island. It was constructed as a donation of the “Loula and Evangelos Nomikos Foundation”. The cable car, technically a pulsed Gondola lift, was built by Doppelmayr. It has a capacity of 1,200 people per hour and the trip takes 3 minutes. The cable car enables visitors arriving by ship to ascent the cliffs quickly and easily. Each car carries four passengers. (<------ Click photo to view)

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Prygos

The Lovely Town of Prygos is the highest point in Santorini plastered with picturesque monasteries and interesting streets. The views from the top are enchanting and almost unbelievably nostalgic. The wonderful town of Prygos would pose a challenge for the faint hearted. It's a long long hike to the top as the city goes up in layers along the cliff. There are both road and foot paths to the top. The view from the monastery is quite spectacular. The paths are unmarked, so one can get lost in the maze. It was wonderful to see the locals grab a cup of coffee and ouzo mid day. I also loved visiting the one and only church at the top of the hill. This experience was SO monumental for me. It left me in such a happy state. I love Prygos. I love Santorini. Life is good. (<---Click Picture to view)

Santorini Caldera

Santorini caldera is a large, mostly submerged caldera, located in the southern Aegean Sea. It is considered one of the most beautiful calderas in the world. Right above water is the circular Santorini island group, which consists of Santorini, the main island, Therasia and Aspronisi at the periphery, and the Kameni islands at the center. Santorini's half-moon-shaped bay is the heart of the caldera (a cauldron-like volcanic depression), which collapsed after a volcanic eruption during the Minoan civilization. The eruption was so  collosal, it caused significant climate perturbations, making it one of the biggest volcanic eruptions on earth. The earthquake of 1956, destroyed over 2,000 homes. The outer edge of the ancient volcano brought about Thira. Subsequent eruptions resulted in Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni islands. White-washed villages perched atop Santorini's reddish cliffs are home to thousands of people, despite its potential hazards. (Click photo to view -------->)

Baxedes Beach

Baxedes Beach (aka Paradisos) is located on the northern coast of Santorini, east of Cape Mavropetra, at the height of Finikia. Baxedes or the Turkish word Baxes, means garden - since the locals grew vegetables and fruits such as tomatoes, cucumbers, peas, eggplants, carrots, zucchini, lettuce, and melons, it was deemed a garden or very fertile beach. It is over .62 miles or 1 km long with small pebbles on black volcanic sand. This beach isn't usually crowded and visitors can often find a spot to relax and soak up the sun. Sun loungers can be rented in some parts of the beach. There are restaurants alongside accommodations near this beach. (Click photo to view -------->)

Archaeological Museum of Thera

The Archaeological Museum of Thera is located in Fira, in the island of Santorini. It houses artifacts that begin from Proto-Cycladic marble figurines of the 3rd millennium BC, and continue on to the Classical period. It was built in 1960 to replace an older one which had collapsed in the 1956 Amorgos earthquake. There are prehistoric vases from Akrotiri dated to the 20th-17th centuries BC. Amongst that, are pottery and amphorae of Geometric and Archaic periods. Many of these objects come from the ancient cemetery of Thera. One of them is a krater with Attic black figures from grave no. 1, with four ships on the internal surface, around the rim. This is one of the main attractions to see when visiting Santorini. (<------ Click photo to view)

St. John the Baptist Cathedral

St. John the Baptist Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church in Santorini, Greece, established in 1204. It was built in the 17th century by the Jesuit monks, missionaries of the Apostolic Order. It serves as the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Santorini and is located on Agiou Ioannou, Thira 847 00, Greece, in the city center - right in the heart of the Catholic neighborhood. It was greatly damaged by the earthquake of 1956 but was renovated back to its former glory in 1975. Its peach exterior contrasts with the many white and blue domed churches that dot the landscape of this quaint, yet beautiful town.  (<------ Click photo to view)

Santo Wine Wineries

A visit to Santo Wine Wineries should be a stop on your to-do list. You get to nibble on cheese, eat, and taste different wines while you enjoy Santorini's magnificent views. It is located on Pyrgos Kallistis 847 00, Greece, and offers scenic winery offerings, walking tours, tastings, nibbles, plus an ample terrace with caldera views. It is spellbinding with unobstructed views of the Aegean sea. (Click photo to view -------->)

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Discover Some Of My Favorite Moments & Quotes

Being in Santorini is like being in Blue and White heaven. You pinch yourself over and over again, thinking you'll soon awake from a mesmerizing dream. Once the sensation ceases, you realize, it's not a dream at all. Santorini is real. It's enchanting, and it's happening right before your eyes.

- Lynda 'Kechy

Santorini's boutique hotels and fine dining make it one of the classier (and pricier) Greek islands, but this is balanced by the down-to-earth hospitality and tradition for which Greece is renowned.

- Mike Gerrard

Everything in Oia seems perfectly in place. There are no jarring advertising banners, no unsightly internet cafes, no skies full of ugly power lines, no piles of garbage to pull you out of the fantasy. Instead, there are amazing mosaics of colored roofs, an endless labyrinth of curving streets, and the most dramatic vistas across the caldera.

- Alex in Wanderland

The light of Greece opened my eyes, penetrated my pores, expanded my whole being. 

- Henry Miller

I want to have an 'Eat, Pray, Love' experience where I drop off the face of the planet and move to Greece.

- Jennifer Hyman

Greece is too old to die. 

- Lito Seizani

TIPS TO REMEMBER WHILE VISITING SANTORINI

1. Every visitor to Greece must have a valid passport to enter. U.S. citizens can enter visa-free for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days since Greece is part of the Schengen Agreement. There is a six months passport validity requirement for U.S. citizens entering Greece like most countries.

2. When in Santorini, get on that donkey. My only regret: Not riding up the hill on a donkey. I sweated my pitts off, but I kinda loved the exercise going up the cliffs. I just didn't want to ride a donkey in a dress and I was afraid to get thrown off the cliff... Eeesh!!. 

3. In Greece, Hop On Hop Off (HOHO)'s are available but aren't present everywhere. As always, it is a good mode of transportation to utilize while exploring any city. In Santorini, you will need a private charter or driver to make seeing this wonderful island as easy as breeze. Visit TE's Tour Guide to see our highly recommended tour guide, Eugenia. 

4. Be prepared. Santorini is very expensive, knowing this ahead of time allows you to manage your expectations so you can ultimately have a unique and worthy experience. 

5. Drink an ouzo mid day. This is Greece or Santorini's favored beverage. It offers very refreshing relief mid excursions. 

6. The wonderful town of Prygos would pose a challenge for the faint hearted. It's a long long hike to the top as the city goes up in layers along the cliff. There are both road and foot paths to the top, so wear extremely comfortable shoes. From the highest point on the Island of Prygos, you can enjoy a picturesque view of Santorini.

7. Credit cards are accepted everywhere, such as hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, etc. When visiting open air markets or private shops, be sure to have plenty of cash.

8. Download maps.me and rome2rio.com to offer directions in and around the city with or without WIFI connection.

9. Get a SIM card for international calls to stay connected with family and friends abroad when free WIFI isn't available. 

10. Always have a copy of your passport on you. It's imperative to have this on hand for any unforeseen circumstances.  

11. Depending on when you are visiting, you'd need an umbrella, sunblock, sunglasses, sweater, the usuals. So bring these items with you and ignore the inconvenience of having it in your backpack. Chances are you'll always and/or definitely need them. 

12. Endeavor to visit Perissa, Red Beach and all the nicely, well organized beaches on your visit to Santorini. There are a plethora of good Greek fish taverns for the picking as well. 

13. When visiting other countries, remember to have credit cards with no foreign transaction fees in your possession such as American Express or a credit card that garners points; particularly, if you are a points junkie like me. Saving on all those fees goes a very long way. 

14. The currency of choice in Greece is the EURO. Always remember to withdraw a country's currency at the ATM machine located INSIDE the airport upon arrival or baggage claim area. This will help you eliminate any fraudlent attempts or prevent you from utilizing an ATM machine that has been compromised. Also, you'll get better exchange rates from your bank, a much lower bank fee in exchange, and you'll save some money while eliminating Bureau de change fees, commisions and/or questionable exchange rates.

15. Try to take advantage of any cities or countries near the country you are visiting. For instance, consider adding other islands within reasonable proximitity of Santorini, to your itinerary. Some of these islands, cities or countries nearby can be crossed off your life or bucket list, this means you'll spend less which facilitates savings. Carpe diem (seize the moment).

16. As always while visiting other countries or cities, wear comfortable shoes, choose appropriate clothing for the climate, weather and/or region. Be mindful, be modest, be aware, be alert, and be kind. Always try to adapt to each countries ideals and requirements in-lieu of imposing your own. 

FINAL THOUGHTS ON SANTORINI, GREECE:

A trip to Santorini leaves you yearning for more. According to Joanna Lumley "Greece has got something like 1,400 islands. There is so much of Greece you can't know even if you're Greek. It's sprinkled out all around the edge of the Aegean, all over the place. It's already a secret place wherever you go, even if it's somewhere huge like Athens or Corinth. The place enchanted me." I couldn't agree more. Hundreds of thousands of visitors come to admire the sunsets of Greece, and Santorini's immense beauty. It is beauty personified and you'd want to soak yourself in its presence. There were lots of highlights to this wonderful island in Greece, from the idyllic views of the Aegean Sea to the cliffside of Mystique's hotel terrace. The hotel's interiors were nothing short of effervescent. Designed by French interor designer Frank Lefebvre, you'll find the bedrooms and suites beautifully decorated and preserved of all its rich history and glory. Yet, the hotel also offered a modern twist. I loved it so much, I can't wait to visit again. If Mystique is out of reach, try Vedema Resort. The likes of Angelina Jolie and other celebrities have visited this resort. Antonis Eliopoulis built the resort as a love note to the area. Vedema happens to be a 15th century winery, with 45 beautifully furnished rooms and suites. Its villas are built around ancient cellars. Prive' and Visanto Restaurants are two of the three eateries on the property. Vedema also has the oldest wine cellar and restaurant in Oia. Romantics can reserve the cave for an intimate dinner for two. When it comes to food in Greece, indulge in their beans, lentils, tomatoes, grapes, cheese, veggies, gyros, octopus, and the list goes on. Hmm, hmm! Good. A visit to Santorini isn't complete until you've done it all. This island is a must-see for every living being. Hurry, do not tarry. Santorini awaits. 

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