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Santorini is probably the most famous island in Greece, attracting four million tourists every year. In a regular year, of course. This makes visiting during the coronavirus pandemic a unique and likely once-in-a-lifetime experience (hopefully).
We spent four full days in Santorini to celebrate our first wedding anniversary. Four days is definitely enough time to experience the island, visit all the villages and beaches, and enjoy what the island has to offer.
The island is essentially a crescent shape formed as a result of a volcanic eruption around 3,600 years ago. Originally, the island was a complete circle, but the central part sank due to the eruption, creating the main island and the smaller islands surrounding it. Santorini has several villages, with the largest and main one being the capital town of Fira, located right in the middle. The most touristy village is Oia, situated in the northern part of the island.
Accommodation
We chose to stay in Fira, the "capital city" of the island, located right in the center of the inner crescent. Its location allows convenient access to all parts of the island within a 30-minute drive. Additionally, the town mostly faces the sea, offering the most open and beautiful views you can find. From almost every hotel here, you can enjoy views of both the sunset and the caldera (the volcano), which is not the case in other towns.
We stayed at Porto Fira suites, a wonderful hotel that perfectly captures the charm and beauty of Santorini.
Getting Around
We rented a car for our entire stay, and I highly recommend it. Taxis on the island are very expensive. The alternative, if you don't want to rent a car, is to get around by bus.
Towns and Villages
Fira - The main town, bustling with restaurants, bars, and entertainment spots. It features narrow streets lined with numerous souvenir shops, knick-knack stores, and clothing boutiques.
Oia - The most touristy village of them all. This is where most of the famous pictures of Santorini come from, featuring white churches with blue domes.
Pyrgos - A small town with a unique atmosphere. It's like a mini Oia, great for wandering through its tiny alleys.
Emporio - A small village with a beautiful main church. There's not much else to see, but it's nice for a quick stroll if you're passing through the area. Near Emporio, there are charming windmills on the road; just two minutes before entering the village, turn onto a side path to find them.
Beaches in Santorini
Perivolos Beach - A beach with black sand, which is very characteristic of Santorini.
Kamari Beach - A beach without sand, only small pebbles. The most beautiful part is near the rock; park at the very end of the town and walk as far right as possible until you reach the end.
Wineries in Santorini
We were pleasantly surprised to discover that Santorini is a wine lover's paradise, home to some of the best wineries in Greece. You can take an organized winery tour on the island, which can be booked at any of the travel agencies on the island.
Hatzidakis Winery - Wine tastings include 7 wines. There is no food available on-site, so keep that in mind. The wine is amazing.
Venetsanos Winery - Stunning views. They offer several tasting options of 4, 6, or 8 wines, and you can also order food. Highly recommended!
Restaurants in Santorini
La Colline Restaurant - Located in Fira at the Villa Bordeaux Hotel. This amazing chef's restaurant offers gourmet food and a perfect view of the sunset. Be sure to book a reservation in advance.
Ammoudi Fish Tavern - Located in Ammoudi, below Oia at the end of the steps. Ammoudi has several tavernas, but this one is undoubtedly the best. It offers fresh fish and a perfect view.
To Psaraki Taverna - Very close to Perivolos Beach. It serves fresh fish from the sea and has a stunning view of the marina.
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