IO things to do in Santorini
The whitewashed, rugged landscape in the Aegean Sea makes for a magical holiday
ITaste the local wine
The wine industry is booming on Santorini with more than 20 wineries now offering tours and tastings to visitors. Head to the Vassaltis Vineyard, one of the newer wineries to open to the public. Book a food and wine tasting.
vassaltis.com
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Enjoy sushi with a view
Japanese food might not be an obvious choice on a Greek island but dining at Nobu restaurant (part of the glamorous new Nobu hotel) is an experience not to be missed. Tuck into the world-famous chef’s signature black cod miso and new dishes like tacos with caviar while taking in the dazzling water views (preferably at sunset). santorini.nobuhotels.com
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Capture the moment
If you only have a short time in Santorini, book a session with a professional photographer to record your experience. Santorini Photo Tours offers options from classic couples shots to dramatic “flying dress” photos that make you feel like a supermodel. They do one and two hour packages – plus a special offering for cruise passengers.
santophototour.com
4
Dress like a local
Stock up on floaty linen pieces created by Greek designers at Haris Cotton. This local brand has been around since the ’70s when it launched in Athens and has now come to Santorini with a beautiful store in Fira, the island’s largest town. All the simple, elegant items are also made in Greece using natural fabrics.
hariscotton.com
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Cruise like the stars
Get a taste of the high life by renting a private luxury catamaran for the afternoon. You can pick your own itinerary for the five-hour sunset cruise and it’s a great way to experience some of the highlights of the island including swimming in the hot springs. Full day rental runs to €2000 (about $3000) in high season, but the boat can accommodate up to 24 people and includes a lavish lunch spread and open bar. santosails.com
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Try a clifftop happy hour
For a truly unforgettable experience, book the Sommelier’s Table at Lycabettus restaurant. Served to only one couple per night (so you need to plan ahead) this is a chance to try a carefully curated flight of local wines paired with local dishes while seated at the exclusive clifftop table. Even if you aren’t able to book this table, it’s worth stopping by to sample some of the treasures on their 1200-strong wine list.
lycabettusrestaurant.com
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Go with the flow
If you’re after a more relaxed experience on the island, head to luxurious Aegeos Spa for a spot of pampering.
In recently opened Sea Breeze Beach Resort Santorini (the first Hilton hotel on the island) it’s a true temple to wellness and the perfect place to unwind.
Try one of their signature treatments such as the massage with Cretan olive oil or the black lava facial. hotels.aegeospas.gr/sea-breeze-santorini
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Experience food as art
There are plenty of places to try classic Greek cuisine, but for an elevated dining experience head to newly opened Varoulko restaurant in the lavish Grace Hotel.
The views are spectacular – but you’ll hardly notice once chef Lefteris Lazarou’s food hits the table.
His Athens restaurant was the first in Greece to win a Michelin star, and it’s easy to see why. Expect dishes such as crab with green apple and octopus tart.
aubergeresorts.com/gracehotel/dine/varoulkosantorini
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Discover a local artist
There are many small art spaces across the island, and one of the newest is the charming t.k.place art gallery, which features a carefully curated collection of ceramics, jewellery, textiles and paintings from established and newer local artists. Located in the village of Kamari, it’s the perfect place to pick up a memento of your visit to the island.
tkplaceartgallery.gr
IO
Eat an authentic meal
For a taste of true Santorini cuisine, head to the village of Pyrgos, which has several little tavernas including local favourite Rymidi restaurant.
Expect traditional fare such as fava puree, grilled haloumi, a generous moussaka and spectacular souvlaki – plus unexpected treats like lobster spaghetti. Stick around for post-dinner ouzo and, if you’re lucky, local music.