Santorini

A bit outside the center, a scooter, car or bus is needed, the nearest bus stop is about a 10-15 minute walk away. 7 nights for €1,235 (€176 a night), good value for money. Exceptional design, unique atmosphere, private terrace with loungers, spacious shared terrace with a grill, private parking right outside, warm and helpful host. Downside: the somewhat remote location can be a challenge without your own vehicle.

Central in Oia, the perfect base for the famous sunset. €450 a night, that top-tier location comes at a price. Exceptionally beautiful, breathtaking view from the terrace and pool, an extremely friendly and helpful host.

Tip: anyone looking for a special place to stay should seriously consider a holiday apartment with an infinity pool in Oia.

On the east coast, about 5 km from Fira. Black volcanic sand, crystal-clear water, a lively atmosphere, with beach bars, tavernas and restaurants lining the 5 km coastline. The dark lava rocks give the beach a special flair, but the sand gets very hot in the midday sun, so water shoes are recommended. About €15 for two loungers and an umbrella.

On the south coast, about 10 km south of Fira, accessed via a bumpy road, a car is needed. Free to access, loungers can be rented at the Theros Wave Bar for about €15 (a lounger on the beach or a lounge on the restaurant terrace with a sea view), if you order something you can relax on the seating for free.

One of Santorini's most famous beaches, in the southwest, about 12 km from Fira, red volcanic sand and towering rock walls. Well signposted, a roughly 10-minute rocky path leads down from the parking lot, sturdy shoes are recommended. Toilets, a kiosk and small food stands available. About €10 to 15 for two loungers and an umbrella. From here you can take a boat to White Beach.

On the southeastern coast, about 13 km from Fira, a beautiful black sand beach. A long coastline, crystal-clear water, a popular swimming spot. Numerous beach bars, tavernas and restaurants line the promenade. About €10 to 15 for two loungers and an umbrella.

A versatile café with a great breakfast selection and tasty food. Ideal for a relaxed start to the day, in the evening it turns into a lively bar with cocktails, good food and music. Daily 7am to 3am.

A cozy café with a beautiful view, perfect for a relaxed breakfast, plus tasty pizza and other dishes for a small or big appetite. Daily 8am to midnight.

A wonderful spot for a romantic dinner with sunset views, a cozy atmosphere and a selection of delicious tapas. Daily 1pm to 11pm.

A cozy grill house with delicious souvlaki and other Greek specialties, also a good selection for vegetarians. Daily 9am to 1am.

A unique open-air movie experience, surrounded by palm trees and atmospheric lighting. Daily from 8:30pm, film starts at 9:30pm, admission €10 per person, films in English with Greek subtitles.

Tip: arrive early to get a good spot.

In a historic wine cellar, fascinating insights into the island's centuries-old winemaking tradition. Daily 10am to 5:45pm, admission €15 per person. Self-guided tour with audio guide (14 languages), ending with a tasting of four different wines and bread.

A picturesque village known for its breathtaking views and the impressive Skaros Rock, a huge volcanic outcrop above the caldera. Until the 18th century Skaros was Santorini's capital, and remnants of the former fortress can still be seen today. The climb up is especially worthwhile at sunset, with a spectacular view over the caldera, sturdy shoes recommended.

At the southwestern tip, one of the island's most beautiful viewpoints. A perfect spot for sunset, with a view over the endless Aegean Sea and the caldera.

Tip: there's a small snack stand on the way up.

The capital on the west coast, charming architecture and breathtaking views over the caldera. A walk through the narrow lanes is worth it, with small boutiques, souvenir shops, cozy cafés, and in the evening plenty of bars with spectacular sea views.

Tip: for dinner we visited Taverna Simos, a traditional Greek taverna with delicious food and a cozy atmosphere.

A picturesque little bay right below Oia, one of the most charming spots on Santorini. Known for traditional fish restaurants serving fresh-caught seafood right by the water, a perfect starting point for boat tours. The walk down offers beautiful views, though the climb back up the many steps can be tiring.

Tip: if you'd rather skip the climb, take a taxi or boat back to Oia.

To avoid the crowds of tourists in Oia, we recommend an early morning walk through the picturesque village. We started our exploration at 7am, camera in hand, and got to enjoy Oia without the crowds, with a few charming little cafés and shops already open.

The typical viewpoints are often packed, and the crowds can spoil the atmosphere. We recommend enjoying the sunset relaxed in a cozy bar, a restaurant, or right from your own accommodation, with a cold drink in hand and no crowds.