Santorini is rightly celebrated as one of the most photogenic islands in Europe and has been attracting avid nature lovers for decades. The unique island terrain encompasses a multi coloured volcanic landscape, rugged coastal cliff tops, caves and those wonderful beaches. Walking tours offer the chance to explore many romantic settings with picturesque traditional villages dotted around the countryside and coastline and beautiful secluded sandy bays. The Santorini surroundings offer both relaxed walking or more challenging steep coastal pathways and stunning views.
The marvellous beaches and sheer variety of coastal surroundings are what attracts so many visitors to Santorini. Sunbathing can be enjoyed on fine white, black and red sand beaches and along with deep blue seas offer unforgettable scenery. The main concentration of beach resorts is found on the eastern coast where ample water sports, restaurants and beachside facilities can be enjoyed. For more isolation, venture to the wild and remote northern shoreline which boasts long stretches of volcanic sand, rocky cliffs and secluded lagoons.
Santorini is not short of entertainment options after dark with a mass of cafes, bars and live entertainment available in all major beach resorts. Upmarket cocktail lounges, traditional tavernas and bustling night clubs are all enjoyed on a night out in Santorini and offer something to suit all tastes. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed and authentic Greek entertainment still attracts large numbers of visitors at many bars and tavernas. An early evening cocktail by the beach at sunset is an unmissable
Enjoy an afternoon spent in a Santorini museum appreciating the island's rich and varied cultural history. Several buildings located throughout Santorini house important treasures or exhibitions relating to its prehistoric past, archaeological finds, local works of art and maritime history. There is even a folklore and wine museum to explore. The capital
Fira contains many monuments and museums that are unique and informative and offer an educational day out for all the family.
Spend a fascinating day at the ancient site of Akrotiki, a large settlement from the Minoan period which is more than 3000 years old. Similar to Pompeii in
Italy, it was destroyed by a volcanic eruption and contains some remarkable buildings and a well preserved central town square. Evidence of everyday life can be seen in street signs and utensils left exactly where they were found when first excavated in 1967. A day at Akrotiki offers a vivid insight into a lost civilisation, full of evocative images and is one of the most important archaeological sites in
Greece.
As a very cosmopolitan holiday destination, Santorini boasts wonderful shopping opportunities that should appeal to all. Trendy boutiques, quaint art shops and markets are plentiful, especially in the capital Fira. A haven for shopoholics, its narrow streets are brimming with shops selling a tremendous range of hand made jewellery, leather goods, local produce and authentic Greek artwork. Many art and craft shops will gladly make goods to order offering visitors a unique personalised souvenir of a Santorini holiday.